Two seats are available on the Oak Valley Hospital District Board of Directors in the November election, and three people are in the running for those two posts.
Candidates are, in alphabetical order, Shirrelle O. Moore-Mmasi, Danielle Louise Sanders and Sara West Shipman.
Following are profiles of the candidates; all responded to a ‘Q&A’ presented to them by this newspaper. Answers are provided as given and all candidates received the same questions.
Shirrelle O. Moore-Mmasi
Q: Why are you running for the OVHD board?
A: I am seeking a position on the OVHD board to contribute positively to our community and enhance the services at our esteemed hospital. Health is a significant focus today, and we are positioned within an environment that allows us to develop enhanced methods for healing our community. We have qualified staff, modern equipment, and the opportunity to recruit volunteers and employees who are dedicated to caring for our patient population. I am seeking this office because I possess the capability to take initiative, engage actively, and contribute to the betterment of our hospital. I bring valuable skills and talents to this board and am committed to contributing my time to be part of the solution, collaborating with a team that can benefit from my assistance.
Q: What are your qualifications/what unique abilities would you bring to the panel?
A: My considerable executive administrator experience in Silicon Valley, where I have been responsible for the care of the Presidents and Vice Presidents of big organizations for more than ten years, is one of the qualities and unique talents that I would offer to the panel. Excel, MSWord, graphic design, and PowerPoint for presentations are all areas in which I have experience that would be useful to the board. In addition, my humanitarian mentality and experience in Stanislaus County, in addition to my worldwide trips, make me a potential value to the team. My interpersonal skills enable me to relate with individuals of all different cultures, which puts me in a position to collaborate well with others.
Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest issue(s) currently facing the hospital district?
A: According to my point of view, the hospital district is now dealing with a number of different problems. One of them is the recent hacks and breaches in information technology security. There is also a significant problem with money; the hospital’s equipment seems to be out of date, and there is a shortage of personnel, which means that it is unable to handle the day-to-day operations or the emergency situations that arise in this town. There is a widespread belief that the hospital seems to be devoid of patients, and that individuals are being denied admission on a regular basis because the facility does not possess the resources or personnel to deal with the rush of patients who are arriving at the facility. Because the OVHD is unable to handle the constantly developing problems, patients are being transferred to hospitals in Modesto on a consistent basis. Last but not least, the quality of customer service is subpar, despite the fact that the hospital’s aesthetics provide the impression that everything is in order, but the staff is not well trained to deal with patients.
Q: How would you work with the other board members to help provide the best possible outcome for the district?
A: I will collaborate with the other board members to develop fundraisers, such as Health Fairs in the community, which can be initiated to enhance the financial stability of the hospital. Developing strategies to acquire contemporary equipment and the latest machinery essential for assisting our patients. Enhanced training and recruitment processes for hospital personnel will ensure that we not only present a positive image as a healthcare facility but also have the qualified staff necessary to assist a greater number of patients as they arrive. Enhancing advertising and marketing efforts, along with increasing visibility within the community, is essential for transforming perceptions of Oak Valley Hospital as a provider that excels in patient and staff care.
Q: Why should people vote for you?
A: I am a candidate who embodies the spirit of change and represents the voice of women. We reside in Oakdale, a community that boasts a sophisticated hospital, yet there is a prevailing lack of trust in the hospital’s equipment and staff. Our hospital requires a transformation, a revised approach, and a refreshed perspective that will enhance our visibility due to the implemented improvements. I invite you to consider my candidacy, as I bring a unique perspective, innovative ideas, and a dynamic approach. I have a clear understanding of the challenges associated with exploring new avenues, and I am committed to fostering positive change. Consider casting your vote to foster an environment equipped with modern technology, a dedicated team, and a culture of compassion within the hospital to drive meaningful change.
Danielle Louise Sanders
Q: Why are you running for the OVHD board?
A: I’m running to drive positive change and ensure our community has access to exceptional healthcare services. It’s my passion to make a meaningful impact and help steer OVHD toward a brighter future.
Q: What are your qualifications/what unique abilities would you bring to the panel?
A: As a seasoned realtor, I bring a unique perspective to the OVHD board with strong negotiation skills, strategic planning, and a community-focused approach. My ability to understand diverse needs and build consensus can help bridge gaps and foster collaboration, ensuring our hospital district serves everyone effectively.
Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest issue(s) currently facing the hospital district?
A: The biggest issue is ensuring sustainable funding while expanding access to modern healthcare services. This balance is crucial for meeting our community's needs effectively.
Q: How would you work with the other board members to help provide the best possible outcome for the district?
A: I’d foster open communication and teamwork, leveraging each member’s strengths to create innovative solutions. Together, we can implement policies that prioritize patient care and operational efficiency.
Q: Why should people vote for you?
A: Vote for me and I will bring a fresh perspective, dedication to transparency, and a commitment to elevating healthcare standards. I’m here to represent your voice and drive outcomes that benefit everyone.
Sara West Shipman
Q: Why are you running for the OVHD board?
A: Accessible, timely and consistent healthcare for the community is top priority. The overall opinion of our local Hospital District needs overhauling.
Q: What are your qualifications/what unique abilities would you bring to the panel?
A: I have a solid background in business management, which equips me with the skills necessary to understand and navigate the complexities of healthcare operations. My experience includes overseeing projects, optimizing processes, and implementing strategic initiatives that drive growth and efficiency. Being actively involved in the community is a cornerstone of my professional philosophy. I have built strong relationships with various organizations and community members, allowing me to understand their needs and concerns. This engagement enables me to advocate effectively for the hospital and its services.
Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest issue(s) currently facing the hospital district?
A: The opinion of the Hospital facility, operations and morale of employees.
Q: How would you work with the other board members to help provide the best possible outcome for the district?
A: My dual focus on business acumen and community involvement positions me uniquely to contribute to the Oak Valley Hospital Board. I can help bridge the gap between hospital management and the community, ensuring that the hospital not only meets operational goals but also serves the community effectively.
Q: Why should people vote for you?
A: I am committed to the mission of Oak Valley Hospital and am eager to leverage my skills and experience to support its growth and positive impact on our community.
Candidates for the hospital board run at-large; the top two vote getters in the Tuesday, Nov. 5 election will win the seats.
