In our last issue of Insight, we highlighted a campaign to Save public health clinics in Seattle-King County. At that time, a budget shortfall of $23 million put the clinics at risk of closure, potentially leaving 80,000 patients without the vital services they need in 2025. But since that time, a funding option has taken shape that may help stabilize the clinics.
Earlier this year, the State legislature passed a bill granting tax authority that could allow Harborview Medical Center (HMC) to expand its capabilities. HMC is managed by UW Medicine, which, in turn, is contracted by King County for its acute trauma care and specialty services.
With this funding now a viable possibility, PROTEC17 has been working with King County leadership and the HMC Board to ensure that clinics and services remain accessible and equitable to those who need them most.
While there is some uncertainty about how the clinics will be managed moving foward, PROTEC17 is strongly advocating to keep the continuity of care and long-standing community trust that Public Health Seattle-King County is known for. The ultimate decision will come in September when King County Executive Dow Constantine releases the County budget. You can find updates on our campaign website at: https://savepublichealth.org.