Therapist Vows to Fight for Landlines as AT&T Considers Phase-Out in California

Gina Catania, a therapist based in San Rafael, Marin County, is deeply concerned about the future of her business as AT&T considers phasing out landline services in California. As a therapist who relies heavily on phone communication with her patients, she has been actively advocating for reliable phone service and participating in community meetings with the California Public Utilities Commission to voice her concerns.

Catania emphasizes the importance of a secure and consistent phone service for her practice, which is why she has been using landlines exclusively for years. She explains that using cell phones or voice over IP lines is not a viable option due to connectivity issues and potential security risks. Her landline provides a stable connection with her clients and ensures that she can provide them with reliable care.

In case AT&T decides to discontinue landline services in the area, Catania fears that her business may not survive without a reliable phone service. She is uncertain about what alternatives she would have and worries that her at-risk patients and trauma survivors would suffer from unreliable communication. Tedi Vriheas, vice president of external affairs at AT&T California, has assured customers that they will provide alternative options for those who rely on landlines for critical communication. However, Catania remains skeptical about the future of her practice and continues to advocate for reliable phone service.

AT&T has stated that fewer than 7% of Californians currently use landlines, but this number may increase as more people shift towards digital communication methods. While it’s understandable that companies want to focus on new technologies like 5G networks, it’s crucial to ensure that existing customers have access to reliable communication methods like landlines when needed.

As a journalist reporting on this issue, I believe it’s essential to raise awareness about the importance of reliable phone service and the potential consequences of phasing out landlines. We need to ensure that vulnerable communities like Gina Catania’s are not left behind by technological advancements and have access to secure and consistent communication methods.

In conclusion, while AT&T may be exploring the possibility of phasing out landline services in California, it’s important to consider the impact this could have on businesses like Gina Catania’s who rely heavily on these services. It’s crucial for companies like AT&T to prioritize customer needs over technological advancements while also exploring alternative solutions for those who need them most.