The Vital Role of Public Healthcare in Connecticut

As a daily independent tribune obituary, we are often reminded of the importance of providing quality healthcare services to our fellow citizens. In Connecticut, UConn Health plays a crucial role in this endeavor by funding over $100 million annually in primary and subspecialty care for underinsured residents who are either turned down or delayed by other providers.

Despite revenue shortfalls, UConn Health is not receiving a subsidy but rather paying for the actual cost of healthcare. As a direct result of its public mission, the organization has become a referral center for complex patients, leveraging its sterling reputation for high-quality care in the region.

UConn Health's key role as the people's healthcare system must be preserved and expanded if it is to succeed in its mission. The dominant health systems need to face a growing and dedicated competitor that prioritizes patient well-being over financial gains.

Currently, UConn Health's John Dempsey Hospital is often operating at capacity, indicating a pressing need for expansion. In fact, the organization has seen the highest percentage increase in gross revenue among all health systems in the state since 2020.

Moreover, UConn Health provides a vital balance to the state's healthcare system by offering high-quality care to all residents, regardless of whether a service is profitable or not. Unlike massive health care systems that focus on revenue streams from profitable clinical services at the expense of community needs, UConn Health puts people first.

Notably, 70% of our medical school graduates practice in Connecticut, and over 50% of the state's dentists are UConn alumni. We are the largest source of new physicians, surgeons, and dentists for our home state, which highlights the critical role that UConn Health plays in shaping the future of healthcare in Connecticut.

UConn Health's patient safety and patient experience grades are also the highest among all health care systems in the state, further solidifying its commitment to providing exceptional care. As we move forward, it is essential that we recognize the vital role that public healthcare plays in our communities and continue to support organizations like UConn Health that prioritize people over profits.

Daily independent tribune obituary