Click audio links to hear our 4-part series of interview with GHD candidates
By Miriam Raftery
Photos: Art Madrid, Virginia Hall, Bob Ayres, Jimmy Parker, Michael Emerson, Priscilla Schreiber
October 15, 2016 (La Mesa) –In a series of interviews, we caught up with each of the six candidates running for the Grossmont Healthcare District Board, which oversees Grossmont Hospital. The field is diverse, and each candidate brings their unique perspectives and priorities for the public’s health.
Topics ranged from easing congestion in the hospital’s busy emergency room to oversight of new construction project, from protecting patient privacy to preparing for the impacts of ballot measures such as an initiative that could legalize marijuana.
Incumbents Michael Emerson and Bob Ayres speak proudly of their records and want to maintain oversight of projects in the pipeline to completion.
Art Madrid, former Mayor of La Mesa, says he’s long been a watchdog over the healthcare district, helping to preserve the hospital’s pediatric unit in the past.
Virginia Hall, a registered nurse, wants to see a higher priority given to addressing mental health issues.
Jimmy Parker, currently on the hospital’s corporate board, wants to bring his insights to the public healthcare district’s board.
Priscilla Schreiber, currently on the Grossmont Union High School District Board, also has a construction background she believes will help her provide oversight of the healthcare district’s many construction projects.