At this month’s Southern California Development Forum Panel, panelists came together with industry leaders to explore the evolving definition of resilience in healthcare design and delivery. With a dynamic mix of perspectives from the public and private sectors, panelists discussed the challenges and strategies shaping the future of healthcare facilities in a time of shifting models, rising costs, and increasing demand for adaptability.  

Moderated by Long Duong, Senior Director at Kaiser Permanente, the panel featured Beth Goodman, Executive Director of Rady Children’s Health; Alicia Ramos, Capital Projects Program Manager of LA County Public Works; and Nanci Timmins, Chief Fire Life Safety Officer of the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI). 

Key topics included:  

• Redefining Resilience for 2025 and Beyond 

The panel kicked off with a candid conversation on what resilience means today. Ramos emphasized that resilience is no longer a reactionary mindset—it's a foundational value. “Healthcare facilities are our communities’ safe havens,” she noted, calling for proactive planning to manage future crises. 

Goodman underscored the need for flexibility in pediatric care environments, especially considering post-pandemic census surges. Ramos echoed this sentiment, highlighting how resilience must include new care models tailored to community safety and evolving local needs. Timmins emphasized the importance of face-to-face communication and collaboration, noting that preparedness is something you train for. 

• Flexibility, Cost Control, and Shifting Care Models 

The discussion quickly turned to the pressures of rising construction and operational costs. Panelists agreed that adaptability—both in staffing and infrastructure—has become essential. Goodman shared how Rady Children’s Health has leveraged flex waivers and strategically placed urgent care centers in the community to reduce pressure on their emergency department. 

Timmins shared that the Office of Healthcare Affordability under HCAI has been tasked with bringing the cost of healthcare down, underscoring the panelists’ sentiment that the dollar has to stretch much further in today’s climate. 

Goodman emphasized a strategic shift toward tenant improvements and ambulatory care centers rather than ground-up builds, noting it offers cost efficiency while supporting patient access. Ramos added that modernizing contracting methods with AEC partners —especially with risk-sharing models—can protect against volatility like tariff spikes. 

• Collaboration and Communication: Keys to Execution 

Throughout the conversation, the theme of collaboration rang clear. From cross-agency partnerships to on-site project coordination, panelists stressed that clear communication and trust-building are critical. Panelists also recommended that companies investigate hiring interns in the architectural, construction, and engineering industries. “We need to foster mentoring programs and support early-career professionals,” said Ramos, calling attention to the workforce development gap left by remote work trends. This will not only benefit a company’s ROI but also ensure that the next generation is equipped with the skills and experience needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. “HCAI is constantly problem-solving and wants to help and train,” said Timmins. When it comes to seismic deadlines, she advised to keep working towards them. 

• Technology, Sustainability, and the Future of Care 

The role of technology and sustainability was a major focus. Panelists discussed AI tools that streamline code enforcement and emergency preparedness, while also pointing to telehealth and remote monitoring as transformative in extending care outside hospital walls. 

Duong shared that Kaiser Permanente tracks energy usage across all of their facilities, stating “In times of emergency, it becomes more critical to not rely on an external source.” Timmins shared that microgrid systems are becoming more prominent and are one example of a dual-purpose innovation that will enhance resilience and support decarbonization efforts. “This is a five-year journey,” said Goodman, referencing Rady Children’s Health’s push toward a sustainable operating model. 

• Policy and Preparedness 

Navigating shifting political and administrative landscapes remains an ongoing challenge. From changes to gender-affirming care regulations to the broader focus on equity, the panel urged organizations to stay agile. “Resilience includes being policy-responsive,” Long reminded attendees, reinforcing the need for healthcare systems to align care models with regulatory and societal expectations.  

Looking Ahead 

Health Systems today are expected to play a vital role in providing high-quality and sustainable care to their communities while facing unprecedented challenges: from rising costs and evolving care models to the increasing frequency of unforeseen events. Panelists proved that Southern California’s healthcare leaders are not just reacting to change—they’re actively redefining the standards for resilient, sustainable, and community-focused care.   

The panel also relied on the audience to implement the following action items in the workplace to build future resiliency: modernize contracting models to incorporate flexibility and mitigate risks such as global tariffs; leverage AI and data analytics for smarter emergency planning and compliance; and expand industry collaboration to train and mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals. These actions will further build resiliency in healthcare planning for the future.