Michael DiGiacomo, D.P.M.

Who knows better than an Alta Bates Summit physician the difference that philanthropy has made in the Medical Center’s operation? Similarly, who knows better than the Chair of the Foundation board the opportunities — and the challenges — the Medical Center faces in acquiring state-of-the-art medical technology and ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients?

Michael DiGiacomo, D.P.M., wears both hats. He joined the staff at Summit in 1977 and at Alta Bates in 1992. He also has been on the Foundation board since 2001 and board President since 2007. In the following Q&A, he explores the Medical Center’s current prospects and the vital role the community must play in safeguarding its future.

Q: There are a lot of great causes out there. Why should donors continue to give to Alta Bates Summit?

Dr. DiGiacomo: Health is arguably the highest priority for everyone, regardless of age or circumstance. If you don’t have it, you don’t have anything — so the saying goes — which speaks volumes about the priority we all should consider in charities we support. In the East Bay, there is no doubt which is the premier medical center serving this community. It is now — and has been for more than 100 years — Alta Bates Summit. Simply put, if you’re going to support public health, your own health, and your family’s, this is the No. 1 place to do it. Your dollars will have greater impact here than at any other single healthcare entity in this area.

Q: How has today’s tough economy affected giving to the Medical Center?

Dr. DiGiacomo: For Alta Bates Summit Foundation, and other charitable organizations, there’s no doubt that the number of donations went down in the fourth quarter of 2008. However, I’m happy to report that there’s an upside in some areas, such as for gifts of property, and other types of planned giving that produce income for life. Tax advantages of these donations can minimize or overcome the effects of today’s troubled economy and create win-win situations. We’re pleased to provide a safe haven for our benefactors’ dollars, and donors can take advantage of a strategic opportunity. They can feel good about doing good for their community, and the Medical Center can obtain vital support.

Bad economy or good, healthcare needs are still here, and we still need donors as much — or more — than ever.

Q: What are some key patient care initiatives that the Foundation has supported in recent years, and what’s on the horizon?

Dr. DiGiacomo: We have provided major funding in a host of clinical areas, including oncology, cardiology, women’s and infants’ services, and behavioral health, and in a wide variety of community outreach programs. Philanthropic funds finance programs that otherwise would go unfunded, programs that define a margin of excellence for advanced diagnoses and treatment, research and clinical trials, and programs that serve the underserved.

The new Carol Ann Read Breast Health Center, which was begun with a generous donation from Foundation supporter Peter Read, is the most comprehensive breast health center in Northern California and is being utilized by women of all social and economic backgrounds. The Foundation also provided a complete cardiac cath lab, with absolutely state-of-the-art technology, at the Summit Campus, and purchased robotic surgery equipment, which is making procedures more efficient with less downside risks, including those for men with prostate cancer. In the coming months and years, the Foundation and its supporters will have to step up to the plate to meet the Medical Center’s continuing needs, such as seismic upgrade of Summit facilities, including the Emergency Department and construction of a new tower for inpatient care. That’s going to be our next big initiative and we stand ready to take it on.