The closure of critical health care facilities in Chester, Pennsylvania, continues to impact local residents. Crozer-Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital both ceased operations in May 2023 after their owner filed for bankruptcy. This situation has prompted community organization One Pennsylvania to gather in Chester to address ongoing concerns regarding access to emergency medical services.
Residents expressed their frustration and fear during the meeting, highlighting the urgent need for medical care in their area. Dawn Pierce, a local resident, shared her concerns: “I am feeling for my counterparts, my neighbors, when they are having strokes and heart attacks and they can’t find any care for more than 20 minutes away.” Many attendees pointed out that the closure has forced people to travel to Delaware or Philadelphia for essential health services, creating significant delays in critical care.
Emergency Medical Services in Jeopardy
The city of Chester is currently relying on a contracted ambulance service to respond to emergencies. This contract is set to expire in April 2024. Despite the uncertainty, Mayor Stefan Roots reassured residents that the city has the necessary funds to maintain the ambulance service beyond the contract’s expiration. He is also closely monitoring developments regarding the recent purchase of the Crozer hospital site, indicating that he met with the new owner to discuss future plans.
The lack of a local hospital has raised alarms about the community’s overall health and safety. Many attendees at the gathering emphasized that a clinic operating until 5 p.m. does not meet the needs of a community that often requires care outside of typical business hours. As Pierce articulated, “Most things happen after dark.”
The impact of these closures is not just a matter of inconvenience; it poses real dangers to residents who may require immediate medical attention. As discussions continue, the community remains hopeful for solutions that will restore adequate health care services in Chester.
