Hospitals: The Cornerstone of Our Communities

May 7, 2004

By Governor Bob Wise

Hospitals and the West Virginia professionals that staff them form the bedrock for every community in the state. From our large medical centers in Charleston and Morgantown to smaller facilities throughout the state, West Virginians know that skilled, caring help is never far away.

Last year, compassionate caregivers at our 64 hospitals delivered 20,000 babies, performed 241,000 surgeries, cared for 316,000 inpatients and treated 6 million outpatients.

The health care industry also contributes greatly to our state's economy, employing 74,000 people, nearly half in hospitals. Recently, I joined with the American Hospital Association to unveil the results of a nationwide study examining the economic impact hospitals have on our cities, towns and rural areas. The dollars and jobs hospitals bring to our families are not insignificant.

According to the report, 11.6 percent of all non-farm jobs in West Virginia are supported by hospitals. This includes not only doctors, nurses and technicians, but small businesses that supply goods and services, and retailers, restaurants and service providers who depend on the business of hospital personnel.

A vital component of our health care system is the Medicaid program and the 3-to-1 match in federal dollars we receive on our state's investment. When I fought to raise the tobacco tax for the first time in a quarter of a century, I committed the money we raised to preserve this vital health care funding. The AHA study shows that Medicaid matching funds are responsible for 33,000 West Virginia jobs.

Since I took office in 2001, I have considered hospitals to be as vital to our infrastructure as roads, waterways or police and fire services. I've helped the Charleston Area Medical Center regain its Level 1 trauma designation. Working with doctors and the Legislature, I took on the medical malpractice crisis that threatened to drive doctors from West Virginia.

Uninsured patients increase costs for everyone, especially hospitals. By revitalizing the Children's Health Insurance Program and expanding access to affordable coverage for adults, my administration is teaming with health care leaders to build a system of care that serves everyone better: providers, patients and taxpayers.

I wish to thank the hardworking heroes of our West Virginia hospitals. Every day, they perform miracles large and small, and every day they help make our communities stronger.