Healthcare System Overview

An In-Depth Look into the Healthcare System

Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center (CHMC)

Located in downtown Los Angeles, CHMC is a premier 318-bed, short-term acute care hospital serving a diverse and growing community. As a voluntary nonprofit hospital under CommonSpirit Health, CHMC remains committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and accessible care. The hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission and has earned multiple awards and distinctions for its patient care excellence, community impact, and medical innovation.

A Legacy of Excellence and Recognition

Founded in 1887, California Hospital Medical Center has been a trusted healthcare provider for over a century, known for its expertise in emergency medicine, cardiology, orthopedics, stroke care, and maternity services. Its commitment to patient care was recently honored when CHMC was named a “Best of Downtown” Winner by the Los Angeles Downtown News.

The hospital is also widely recognized for its clinical quality and financial strength, ranking in the 83rd percentile for net patient revenue ($595 million annually). Its strong affiliations and referral networks further solidify its role as a key healthcare provider in Greater Los Angeles.

Comprehensive Services and Clinical Excellence

CHMC provides a full spectrum of medical services, including:

  • 24/7 Emergency and Trauma Services – One of the busiest ERs in Los Angeles with over 74,000 visits per year
  • Comprehensive Maternity and Women’s Health Services – 3,688 births annually, designated a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care
  • Cardiology and Heart Health – Expert cardiologists and cardiac rehabilitation programs
  • Orthopedic Surgery and Joint Replacement
  • Neurosciences, Stroke, and Brain Health – Advanced stroke treatment capabilities
  • Oncology and Cancer Care
  • General Surgery and Robotic-Assisted Procedures
  • Behavioral Health and Social Services
  • Diagnostic Imaging and Laboratory Services

CHMC’s high clinical quality scores reflect its commitment to patient safety and excellence. Notably, it received a 99th percentile ranking in readmission reduction performance and maintains a low hospital-acquired condition (HAC) score of 0.664, underscoring its focus on reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.

Strategic Investments in Innovation and Growth

CHMC continues to expand and modernize to meet the evolving needs of the Los Angeles community. One of its largest investments is the $215 million Patient Care Tower, enhancing emergency services, maternity care, and surgical capabilities.

In addition, CHMC actively invests in technology and digital health, including:

  • Oracle Cerner PowerChart Electronic Health Record (EHR) system for seamless patient data management
  • $3.6 million in IT capital investments supporting strong telehealth infrastructure
  • Participation in Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) to improve care coordination
  • Partnerships with premier referral hospitals and specialists across Los Angeles

These advancements reaffirm CHMC’s dedication to cutting-edge medical care, innovation, and patient-centered services.

A Key Player in the Los Angeles Referral Network

As a regional healthcare leader, CHMC collaborates with leading hospitals and specialists to provide comprehensive patient care. The hospital maintains strong referral relationships with major institutions, including:

  • PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital (15.1% of referrals)
  • Southern California Hospital at Hollywood (14.5% of referrals)
  • Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (9.2% of referrals)
  • Los Angeles General Medical Center (9.2% of referrals)

These strategic partnerships ensure patients receive the most advanced care possible, whether at CHMC or through its trusted network of specialists and tertiary care centers.

Community Impact and Commitment to Equity

CHMC is deeply committed to serving the underserved populations of Los Angeles. The hospital provides over $44 million annually in uncompensated care, including:

  • $74 million in charity care charges
  • $16 million in direct charity care costs
  • $26 million in unreimbursed government indigent care programs

With 71% of total patient days covered by Medicaid, CHMC plays a crucial role in bridging healthcare disparities and ensuring access to high-quality medical services for all patients, regardless of financial circumstances.

Conclusion

Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center stands as a beacon of healthcare excellence in downtown Los Angeles. With a 318-bed facility, a dedicated medical team, strong financial backing, cutting-edge technology, and a robust referral network, CHMC is well-positioned to continue delivering outstanding patient care for years to come.

Whether through its award-winning services, major infrastructure investments, or deep-rooted commitment to community health, CHMC remains a trusted and essential provider for Los Angeles residents and beyond.

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