What’s new in your industry?
Providence contracts with Medicaid organizations in 44 states. Medicaid reform, including expansion and/ or cuts, has become a topic at every level. Health care reform will mandate Providence’s home-based services in every state. Medicaid eligibility, by design, will add 15 million new members to Medicaid. Arizona is the first and only state so far to reduce Medicaid eligibility.
What is the economic forecast for your industry?
Strong demand for health care services, but looming Medicaid and Medicare cuts make for an anxious time.
Why does your company support economic development?
Economic development and job creation are vital to Tucson’s future, especially downtown where Providence has relocated its company headquarters.
What is your personal passion as it relates to our economy and Tucson’s future?
My grandfather moved to Tucson in 1929. He worked for the Work Projects Administration for a $1 a day laying sidewalks. A piece of that sidewalk is now my company’s reception desk. I chose to return to Tucson in 1997 after being away for almost 20 years and pledged to make a difference. I have committed my personal and company resources to help create
a vibrant entertainment, business and restaurant destination in downtown Tucson.
What are key issues this region needs to address and how can they be supported?
I believe that downtown revitalization is “job one.” Our government has failed in getting the job done and the private sector has stepped up in a big way. Every company in Tucson needs to support downtown revitalization.
What is your company doing to make Tucson a better place to live?
We have invested millions of dollars into downtown, in a new headquarters, but also in supporting cultural events like 2nd Saturday, Fox Theatre, Museum of Contemporary Art, Children’s Museum Tucson and Southern Arizona Transportation Museum. We built downtown’s first luxury condos atop our company headquarters.
Why is your industry strong in the Tucson region? What can be done to make it even stronger?
Health care in Tucson has great leadership. Combined, it is the largest employment sector in the region. Further unity around a common agenda will make the health care sector stronger.
How do you envision Tucson 10 years from now?
A vibrant downtown with light rail connecting distinct neighborhoods... a solar and aerospace hub... and double the population.