This month, Olive-View UCLA Medical Center was nationally recognized by US News & World Report as one of the Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. This recognition reflects our innovative approach and commitment to improving maternal health outcomes. Among the findings, was an acknowledgment of the effective use of language services, including American Sign Language, maintaining low C-section and episiotomy rates following best practices to ensure safe childbirth and comprehensive pregnancy and childbirth education that empowers parents to effectively care for their newborns. This was a team effort in every way, and I am very proud of our ability to care for families during such a life changing event and beyond.

Our patients benefit from our staff’s unrelenting caring nature, and it is our goal to see that caring nature also benefit the very healthcare workers who do so much for our communities. Our commitment to workforce wellness was recently highlighted when workforce members at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center noticed a colleague did not look well; their quick actions resulted in life-saving medical interventions at Harbor’s emergency department. This is an important reminder - to us all - that we can’t take care of others if we do not first take care of ourselves. This is true for our lives in and outside of work. Healthcare workers also need caring individuals to look out for them and I thank those colleagues who were perceptive and caring towards one of our own.

This month, Rancho Los Amigos held an event to spread holiday cheer to local families. See below to learn more about it.

The LA Opera visited Harbor-UCLA Medical Center to share the joy of the season through song. The article below includes some of the beautiful music.

This time of year can bring tremendous joy and opportunities to spend time with loved ones, for others it can also be a challenging time filled with stressors. If you know of someone who is facing eviction, please know that there are resources and services available to offer support. See below to learn more about the resources and share widely.

As we close out the year, I wish our wonderful LA Health Services workforce members joy and peace during the holiday season and a healthy and prosperous new year.  

Thank you for all you do.

Pediatric Hospitalist Dr. Sarah Gustafson was feeling unwell last month during her shift at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center but tried to push through the discomfort. Her team noticed that she was in medical distress and immediately sought treatment for her in the Emergency Department. Her care team at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (including the Anesthesiology, Critical Care, Emergency Medicine, Interventional Radiology, OB/GYN and Trauma Surgery departments) was able to rapidly diagnose and treat a massive internal hemorrhage, ultimately saving her life. In addition to providing medical care, her colleagues became an essential part of her recovery support team.

This “story highlights not only the skill and dedication of our Interventional Radiology, Trauma Surgery, and Emergency Medicine teams but also the unique and collaborative spirit of Harbor,” said Harbor’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Griselda Gutierrez.

Dr. Gustafson is currently on the road to recovery and has returned to work. This story highlights how her care and support teams exemplified Harbor’s mission “to provide equitable and exceptional care with the respect and compassion we would want for our loved ones.”

Pictured left to right (back row): Dr. Jared Kirsch, Dr. Brant Putnam, Dr. Jeremy Chin, Dr. Kelly Callahan, Dr. Craig Goolsby, Dr. Caroline Dong, Dr. Jesus Uribe.

LA Opera Connects visited Harbor-UCLA Medical Center on December 9 and sang holiday carols for patients and staff. LA Opera Connects is an LA Opera initiative intended to provide everyone the “opportunity to experience the power of opera and the potential healing power of music.”

The small singing ensemble entertained Harbor-UCLA Medical Center’s Emergency Department and main lobby waiting areas, as well as our inpatient pediatric and behavioral health units. Their performances provided comfort and spread cheer to everyone. This video shows a bit of the beautiful music they brought to the hospital.

For more information about the LA Opera Connects programs, email Connects@LAOpera.org or call 213-972-3157.

Pictured left to right: Julia Santha, Ashley Faatoalia, Julia Metzler, Karen Hogle Brown, and Eli Villanueva.

This holiday season, Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center (Rancho) made a significant impact on the lives of 82 patients and their families through its annual Adopt-a-Family program. The program, which is designed to assist families facing financial hardship—many of whom have a member living with a disability—ensured that these families enjoyed a brighter holiday season filled with joy and hope.

One of the key contributors to this year's success was Bank of America, which celebrated its 29th year of support for the program. The bank adopted 28 families, providing assistance to 100 individuals, including 72 adults and 28 children. Other organizations that participated in the program included Pushrim Foundation, Global Paratransit, Veritiv, Inc., Rancho Research Institute, Assistance League of Downey, and Rancho Federal Credit Union. Their involvement is a testament to the strong community spirit that supports Rancho Los Amigos and its patients.

A delightful surprise for the families in attendance was the appearance of Santa Claus, who made a special visit, bringing joy to both the young and the young at heart. Santa’s presence added an extra touch of magic to the event, ensuring that the holiday spirit was alive and well at Rancho Los Amigos.

The participating families were identified through the efforts of Rancho’s team of social workers, nurses, and physical therapists. Each family has at least one member who is a patient at Rancho Los Amigos. The Adopt-a-Family program continues to be a shining example of the community’s commitment to helping those in need, and Rancho Los Amigos remains dedicated to supporting its patients and their families year-round.

For more information about the program, please contact Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center.

The experience of facing eviction is stressful, often leaving individuals feeling alone and overwhelmed in a situation that is hard to fathom. No one should have to navigate this challenging time on their own, as the emotional toll can be heavy, adding to the uncertainty of losing a home. Thankfully, there are numerous eviction resources available to provide support, guidance, and assistance during such a difficult period. Whether it’s legal aid, financial assistance or counseling services, these resources can help individuals understand their rights, explore their options and find the help they need to regain stability. Here’s a list of valuable housing and support resources that can make a significant difference for those impacted:

 Employee Assistance:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Los Angeles County offers a confidential EAP providing counseling and support for employees and their dependents. Contact EAP at 1-213-433-7202 or visit their website for more information.

Stay Housed LA:

• Stay Housed LA: This initiative provides residents with information and legal services to keep people in their homes. Eligible individuals can apply for free legal services, receive resources and attend workshops to understand their rights. Visit their website or call 1-888-694-0040 for assistance.

Homelessness Prevention Programs:

• Homelessness Prevention Program, administered by the Los Angeles County Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), provides people with short-term rental and legal assistance to maintain their housing or to find new housing. These services are designed to help individuals maintain stable housing. LAHSA also has a problem-solving program to help people quickly resolve a housing crisis. Email problem-solving@lahsa.org for more information.

Rent Stabilization: 

• Tenants who receive an eviction notice can contact the LA County Consumer & Business Affairs at 1-800-593-8222 or email rent@dcba.lacounty.gov to learn more about the Rent Stabilization Program. Individuals can schedule an appointment for assistance by clicking here. The department also has information about tenant protections here.

Los Angeles Housing Department:

• The LA Housing Department lists numerous community resources, including family source centers, for people with housing issues. Check the website or call 1-866-557-7368.

If you know someone who may be experiencing an eviction, you can help encourage them to utilize these resources.