Bill would authorize temporary emergency stabilization center in Patterson while permanent hospital planned
AB 22 82 would let a publicly owned hospital obtain a waiver to operate a time‑limited rural emergency stabilization care unit in Patterson while a permanent hospital is developed; proponents called it a life‑saving bridge and opponents warned freestanding emergency units can harm regional safety‑net finances and confuse patients.
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Assemblymember Alan East presented AB 22 82 to address a 20‑mile travel gap for Patterson residents by authorizing the Department of Public Health to waive licensing so a publicly owned hospital can operate a rural emergency stabilization care unit (a "rescue") while a permanent hospital is planned and built. The district sponsor described the proposal as a narrow, accountable bridge to provide screenings, triage and stabilization with on‑site physician and nursing staffing and EMTALA protections.
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