May 15, 2001
"Our city has begun changing its health care system—from one resting on emergency care to one rooted in primary and community care. With this change, we're going to improve the quality of our health services—and improve the health of every resident in this city." – Mayor Anthony A. Williams
| On April 30, 2001, the DC Control Board approved a plan to privatize the services offered at DC General Hospital. That decision will have a tremendous, positive impact on the way our city cares for its most vulnerable residents. |
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THE TRANSITION TO BETTER HEALTH CARE — As this new system of care evolves, we have two obligations:
- To continue to provide health care to those who need it most.
- To make sure that those who were employed at DC General can keep working.
PROVIDING HEALTH CARE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST
Where do I go if I get sick?
The answer is simple: go where you have gone before. If you went to DC General yesterday, you can still go there tomorrow. The emergency room and outpatient clinics are still there to care for you.
There will be no inpatient care at DC General. "But that doesn't mean we're denying anyone service. Instead, we're offering you a facility where the service is better," said Mayor Williams. "We'll have a full staff of Emergency Medical Services personnel, physicians, and nurses—medical professionals who will assess your needs, care for you, and get you home—or get you to the best medical facility for your condition."
What about seeing a regular doctor?
If you are eligible under our new plan, you will be enrolled in our new health network—and you will get your own primary care physician. "That means you—and your family—will have your own doctor, one who knows you personally, knows about your health, and follows you through our system of care," commented Mayor Williams. "From regular check-ups, to dealing with an illness, to seeing you after you've recovered, your doctor will be with you."
What's going to happen to my medical records?
Your records will follow you from your community clinic to the emergency room—so your physician has a complete reflection of your medical history. Your records will also be included in a centralized network—so your physician can see all the care you have received with the turn of a page, or the click of a button.
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