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December 5

1938 - Supervisors award construction contract for jail at Wayside Farms in Castaic (later called Pitchess Detention Center) [story]

The Struggling Doctor’s Office

Doctor’s Diary with Dr. Gene Dorio

Dr. Gene Dorio | Saturday, Mar 28, 2020

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I have been in private practice in the Santa Clarita Valley for 32 years. I run a small business, have employees, pay taxes, and follow the laws that govern medical care in the state.

My stock in trade has been an office with geriatric medical expertise, providing house calls in the community to improve the quality of life for those I serve. At times it has challenges stemming from red tape obstructing needed care, or diminishing reimbursement from insurance companies and government.

Yet, I love our growing valley, as it has prospered with good schools and businesses welcoming many people of different backgrounds to seek the American dream. I have achieved it with them.

For me and many of my colleagues in private practice, the COVID-19 crisis could jeopardize that dream. Waiting rooms are empty, appointment cancellations escalating, and there are no walk-in visits. If this were because of great doctoring, I would feel proud and worthy. But, no.

I am a scientist, and know this virus is dangerous.

The financial resiliency of many medical practices here and around the country will be tested.

But I have confidence we will heal, to strive again for our American dream.

Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D., is a geriatric housecall physician who serves as president of the Los Angeles County Commission for Older Adults and Assemblyman to the California Senior Legislature. He has practiced in the Santa Clarita Valley for 32 years.

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1 Comment

jim says:

Sunday, Mar 29, 2020 at

Dr. G,

I too hope that things will get better, and that the SARS Covid2 fight will soon come up with treatments that will save lives.

What worries me is that other patients undergoing tests and treatments are going to be shoved aside by the onrushing patients whether they are not carrying, infected or concerned about SC2.

I know this valley has grown way beyond it’s ability to deal with a giant surge of affected people. I suspect there aren’t any localities throughout the country that are prepared for this.

Life goes on, and memory is short. But memory is what tells us when it is time to make changes in our day-to-day behaviors…and treatments.

We should remember better. We should never forget again. We should strengthen our health infrastructure including staffing and equipment for the next one. And the one after that.

Because unless this one takes us all out, we will need to deal with it (or it’s replacement) again.

Ford said that history is bunk; that is only true if you die before it repeats itself again.

Jim

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