Providing quality health care stimulates the economy and enhances quality of life
National Hospital and Health System Week (May 12-18) is an appropriate time to look at the impact health care and WellSpan have on the state and the region.
A recent report showed that Pennsylvania hospitals contributed more than 585,000 hospital and hospital service-related jobs to the commonwealth’s workforce and $98.9 billion to the state’s economy. In 55 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, hospitals and health systems are among the top five employers.
Locally, WellSpan provides nearly 9,000 jobs and contributes approximately $445 million a year through payroll to the community.
WellSpan cares for more than 14,100 patients a week at WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital, WellSpan York Hospital, WellSpan Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital and its various locations throughout Adams and York counties and northern Maryland.
In one way or another, WellSpan touches the majority of residents in the area.
WellSpan has $2 billion economic impact
Darrell Auterson of the York County Economic Alliance said that in addition to WellSpan’s nearly 9,000 employees, it generates an additional 7,000 jobs because of its economic impact.
“That figures out to an economic impact of slightly more than two billion dollars,” he said. “WellSpan is definitely an economic stimulant for our area.”
Auterson added that the health services industry has had a ripple effect on the area’s economy, enhancing growth in other areas. More than 50 different companies in York County are involved in manufacturing medical devices.
“Without strong health services, our area wouldn’t have grown as much as it has,” he stressed.
“Providing first-class health care is also a tremendous attribute to the area’s appeal when it comes to attracting new businesses and residents.”
Deb Geesey, executive director of the Gettysburg YWCA, said, “WellSpan is a long-time partner, and they have been wonderful to work with. We have an outstanding relationship with WellSpan.”
Geesey cited WellSpan’s numerous community programs and its sponsorship of many YWCA events, including the Spirit of Gettysburg 5K and being a Hallmark sponsor since 2008.
“I have a personal love for WellSpan,” added Geesey, a breast cancer survivor. “They have had a tremendous impact on women in Adams County. I’m so thankful for the services WellSpan provides for cancer patients in the area.”
WellSpan involved in the community
Bob Woods, executive director of the United Way of York County, pointed out that WellSpan employees are the No. 1 contributor to the United Way.
“WellSpan employees are also very involved as volunteers,” said Woods. “They serve on community boards and lend their expertise in so many areas. They have assisted United Way with its strategic planning and our allocation process.”
He added, “WellSpan works with the United Way to build a stronger, healthier community. WellSpan supports projects such as YorkCounts, Healthy York Network, Healthy Community Pharmacy and many other community initiatives.”
Robin Fitzpatrick of Adams County Economic Development said quality of life is an important factor for businesses considering relocating to Adams County.
“Quality health care is one of the top three issues,” she said. Fitzpatrick said many people looking to retire to Gettysburg and Adams County are pleasantly surprised to find that the area offers outstanding health care.
“They don’t expect to find specialists and the range of services WellSpan offers in a small town. They’re surprised to find out they don’t have to travel to Hershey or Johns Hopkins for services.”