Two state lawmakers are asking for state Health Department help at recently closed Tara Hospital.
In a letter addressed to state Department of Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson, State reps. Peter J. Daley (D-California) and H. William DeWeese (D-Waynesburg) Friday asked the department to "assess the current health-care situation in southwestern Pennsylvania, specifically to ensure continuity of care for the local population previously served by Brownsville Hospital."
"We are concerned that community health-care needs may not be met due to the recently announced and abrupt closing of the facility. We certainly don't need to stress to you the important services that are provided through local hospitals, both on a preventative and emergency health-care basis.
"A quick response time is often critical to the proper treatment of many ailments and the loss of the Brownsville Hospital could lead to long-term negative effects on the health of local residents."
Tara Hospital shut its doors and transferred its remaining patients Sunday, three days after the owners threatened to close the Fayette County facility amid a contract dispute with nurses.
Officials said they voluntarily surrendered the hospital's state license "due to financial reasons" and sent the remaining patients to other hospitals.
Washington County attorney Harry Cancelmi stepped in as new chief executive officer, replacing Charleroi businessman Gaurang "Gary" Gosai, when the hospital turned over its license to the state Department of Health.
Speaking to The Valley Independent late Friday, Daley said he plans to speak with Tara officials to discuss all options, including reopening the facility, if possible.
He said the representatives want to protect the health-care needs of the residents in the community and as well as the hospital workers.
