Political Philosophy for Patrick C. "Pat" Lantz

Candidate for
Director; Tehachapi Valley Health Care District

I have lived in Tehachapi most of my life. My wife and I have relied on Tehachapi Hospital for our, and our children's, health care needs many times. So have my parents, siblings and, lately, my grandchildren. My friends and neighbors depend on Tehachapi Hospital as well.

In June 1998 I was elected to office during a special recall election. This district was in turmoil. Public confidence in District management was low. Some people lacked confidence in the hospital's ability to serve them in an emergency. The district faced a one-million dollar loss from proceding with plans to build a nursing facility that simply was not feasible. The Kern County Grand Jury issued a critical report on District affairs. The California Department of Health and Human Services had been waiting a year for several serious discrepancies to be corrected. The operating room was closed because it did not meet minimum standards. This District was in critical condition and failing fast.

After I took office the process of healing the district began. I, along with two other new board members, brought a philosophy of healing divisions and building trust to Board decisions. We responded to the Grand Jury's report with an acknowledgement of what had been done wrong and, more importantly, what concrete steps were being taken to correct those errors. We contracted with Brim Healthcare Systems to manage the district. Money was allocated to bring the operating room into compliance. Salary and staffing practices were reviewed and adjusted to eliminate waste. All contracts were evaluated and, where necessary, corrected or terminated. Policies and procedures were put in place to eliminate poor employment practices. Many more operational and philosophical changes were made with one goal in mind, to improve the quality of care provided to our patients.

I am committed to continuing this new direction. I am also committed to treating the business of the district as the public's business. Unless disclosure is forbidden by law, the public's right to information will be respected at all times. I believe government's principle purpose is to provide for the public health, safety and welfare. Working to preserve the public safety has been my vocation most of my working life. As a member of this board I am able to work toward preserving and improving the public health.

This district is at a critical point. We are beginning an assessment of the Distict's needs now and in the future. The public will be brought into this process more than at any time in the history of the district. This healthcare district is beginning to heal from the wounds it suffered under the former administration. We must continue the recovery. Your vote for me and candidates Elizabeth Lask and Barry Breen will ensure our ability to do so.