Facing Challenges Together

Thank you for your warm welcome over these past few weeks. I so appreciate the great work happening here at Contra Costa Health, and have enjoyed meeting many of you.

I’m committed to transparency and communication. To that end, I am sharing updated projections on how changes in federal law, specifically HR-1, as well as state policy changes, are projected to affect our department and community. By 2029, it is estimated that nearly 100,000 Medi-Cal members in Contra Costa County will lose health coverage, resulting in more than $360 million in cumulative revenue loss.

These challenges are real. Yet I am encouraged by what I see as I visit workplaces and spend time with staff across CCH. Your commitment, resilience and focus on excellent care are inspiring, and position us to respond well to whatever comes next.

Public support is also growing. Elected leaders recently toured Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and expressed strong support for our essential mission. That support will be vital as we navigate the road ahead.

Alongside funding threats, shifting federal vaccine policies are adding confusion at a critical time of year. I want to be clear: At CCH, we remain committed to science- and evidence-based practices, and will champion vaccine policy that follows the data.

We continue to align with California Department of Public Health guidance. Protecting the health of our patients, staff and community will always be a guiding priority.

Our shared goal is to provide the care and services our community depends on. Over the next few months, Contra Costa Health will be working with community stakeholders, providers, and other county departments to set priorities and navigate the changing federal landscape.

To help us connect, I will be visiting facilities and holding in-person town halls across our system in coming weeks. These gatherings are opportunities to hear more, ask questions, and share ideas. Dates and times will be shared soon – hope to see you there.

Thank you for all you do every day. I look forward to connecting and moving forward together.

With gratitude,

Grant Colfax, MD
Chief Executive Officer
Health Director, Contra Costa County