Chesco Hospital Closures Prompts Comitta To Introduce Legislation

WEST CHESTER, PA— In the wake of the closures of two hospitals in Chester County, state Sen. Carolyn Comitta has plans to introduce legislation to reform the process around hospital closures.

“A sudden, profit-driven decision to close an emergency facility can have a destabilizing effect on an entire region and people deserve a complete picture on the ramifications of a potential closure,” Comitta, a Chester County Democrat, said in a prepared statement.

“This legislation looks to address these concerns by creating a transparent process that encourages greater public participation, so communities can quickly set a course of action to restore access to health services.”

The legislation is in response to Tower Health’s decision to close two Chester County hospitals, Jennersville and Brandywine.

Brandywine Hospital in Caln Township closed on Jan. 31. Jennersville Hospital in Penn Township, closed on Dec. 31, 2021.

“While we cannot reverse previous actions taken by emergency service providers, these reform measures bring Pennsylvanians towards a more transparent view of our healthcare system,” Comitta said.

The bill would increases the notice hospitals must give before closing a facility from 90 days to 180 days.

It also establishes more comprehensive and defined standards for procedure and notification of a closure.

“Abrupt announcements and a lack of transparency around recent hospital closures left many people searching for answers concerning the future of critical health services in their community,
Comitta said.

“This bill will provide local and state officials, community leaders, and healthcare professionals additional time to assess a potential closure and reduce the likelihood of a lapse in
emergency service.”

The bill also includes requirements for an approved closing plan and health equity impact assessment to be submitted to the state Department of Health and Attorney General.

It also calls for increased community input, data collection, public comment, and public hearings prior to closure.

State Rep. Dan Williams, a Chester County Democrat, introduced a bill that requires the state Department of Health's approval for future hospital closures, as well price transparency requirements.