As one of the largest nonprofit health systems, Kaiser Permanente’s operations have tremendous economic influence. In 2023, Kaiser Permanente purchased over $22.2 billion in goods and services. An economic impact study estimates that these procurement dollars supported over 176,000 jobs, generated $11.8 billion in income, and contributed $3.4 billion in federal and state taxes.
“If you help generate jobs, then people have money to buy food and housing and health care, and then they are going to be healthier.”
– Elizabeth Eldridge, Kaiser Permanente’s director of sustainable sourcing
Recognizing this influence, Kaiser Permanente has embraced its role as an anchor institution by committing to the anchor mission and aligning its operational activities with its community health goals. As a founding member of the Healthcare Anchor Network (HAN) and a signatory on the Impact Purchasing Commitment (IPC) and Place-based Investing (PBI) commitment, the anchor mission is deeply embedded within Kaiser Permanente’s operational philosophy and strategic initiatives.
“These are our neighbors…and creating wealth in [our] communities and bringing jobs, bringing tax revenue to the school districts our kids go to school in [all matters for good health].”
Tommy Smith, Kaiser Permanente’s senior manager of economic impact