A bill before the legislature would allow Guam Memorial Hospital to outsource the preparation of patient meals, a process currently prevented by Guam law.
Bill 290-38, introduced by Sen. Sabrina Salas Matanane, is offered as an opportunity to increase revenue and improve efficiency at the hospital.
The enabling statute for the hospital states that outsourcing of food sources is allowed, but outsourcing can’t replace or eliminate the in-house Dietetic Services department for inpatient meals.
On Wednesday morning, senators heard testimony about how outsourcing could save money at the hospital.
Dr. Joleen Aguon said the cost of providing meals has nearly doubled, going from $14.12 in 2015 to $26.97 in 2025. Aguon said the increase is the result of higher pay as well as higher food costs.
Current workers would be able to transition to positions with private vendors if the bill becomes law.