Bowser Administration Announces New Howard, St. E Hospitals

Being a physician in the District in the 21st century means being on the front line of the most pressing public health issues in the world. In our small geographic boundaries, physicians help address issue found in every state all in one area. The issues are too lengthy to list on one webpage but physicians are on the front lines of addressing health issues for all District residents.

News, Statements, and Testimony on Health Equity Issues

25th Council session information coming soon.

Bowser Administration Announces New Howard, St. E Hospitals

Apr 30, 2020, 08:31 AM by MSDC Staff

Today the Mayor will announce two news hospital deals that will help address some health disparities in the District.

In the midst of a pandemic that is exposing health inequities, the Bowser Administration will hold a press conference today announcing two new hospitals that could help address some of those inequities.

First, the administration will announce a final deal to build a hospital on the campus of St. Elizabeths with Universal Health Services (UHS). The new hospital will be an extension of George Washington University Hospital (operated by UHS) and includes opening urgent care clinics "East of the River". The new hospital will replace United Medical Center and open in 2024. It will contain a level-three trauma center, obstetrical services, cancer care services, and 136 beds.

Second, the administration will share details about Howard University and Adventist HealthCare new hospital. The new building will be built on university grounds and the old hospital complex will be redeveloped as part of the university campus. The deal allows Adventist HealthCare to modernize a hospital and health center that has served as a prestigious training hospital, especially for African-American students.

The deals hope to begin addressing some of the health inequalities that exist in the District. The COVID-19 public health emergency has been particularly virulent in the African-American community, with around 80% of deaths in the District are African-Americans. While new hospitals will not address all of the health concerns for populations in need, they are an important part of a robust and effective health care system.

Sample of Health Equity Legislation MSDC Tracked

Student Access to Treatment Amendment Act (B23-467)

What does it say? The bill allows for the administration of medicinal marijuana in schools as well as allows students to bring sunscreen to schools and apply it without a prescription.

MSDC position: MSDC supports the language permitting sunscreen application in schools

Current status: A win for DC physicians and public health! The legislation passed the Council in February and was signed by the Mayor. Previous temporary and emergency legislation permitted students to use sunscreen at schools this school year already.

Electronic Medical Order for Scope of Treatment Registry Amendment Act (B23-261)

What does it say? The bill requires DC Health to establish an electronic Medical Order for Scope of Treatment registry (eMOST).

MSDC position: MSDC supports this legislation to more easily allow patients to make their treatment orders known.

Current status: A win for the physician community and our patients! The Council passed the bill in December and the Mayor signed it into law on January 16, 2020.

Healthy Beverage Choices Amendment Act (B23-495)

What does it say? The bill would implement a 1.5 cent per ounce tax on the distribution of "sugary" beverages. The money collected from the tax would establish a Healthy People, Healthy Places Open Spaces Grant Program.

MSDC position: MSDC sent a letter to Council Chair Mendelson asking for a hearing to discuss all of the issues around a beverage tax.

Current status: The bill was introduced October 8, 2019 and referred to the Committee on Business and Economic Development and the Committee of the Whole.