Physicians are protesting the planned closure of Sharon (Pa.) Regional Medical Center, according to a Dec. 17 report from WKBN.
A closure notice for the medical center was issued on Dec. 16, but local physicians believe until the doors are locked, time to act remains.
"It's very frustrating and concerning. I have not given up hope yet," Valeri Roth, Sharon Regional chief of surgery, told WKBN. "If there is a single worthwhile cause for the health and care of this community, it's helping to save that hospital."
The center decided to close after Meadville Medical Center announced that it would no longer proceed with plans to purchase Sharon Medical.
Steward's notice to close the hospital on Jan. 6 comes just months after filing for bankruptcy. Local community organizations have been working behind the scenes to try and save the hospital, according to the report.
"It's going to be devastating to the community. I think people don't know what we offer until it's going to be gone," Mr. Roth said. "I think that we need to fight for this hospital. It's too important to the community."
The community will hold a candlelight vigil to support employees and patients at Sharon Regional Medical Center on Dec. 18.