Failed Bradford Hospital Transfer Warrants AG Review
On Oct. 5, I issued my official statement regarding the inability of Kaleida Health to complete an agreement that would have transferred ownership of the former Bradford Regional Medical Center campus to Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM).
The situation facing Bradford is unacceptable, particularly when you look at the promises and expectations that accompanied Kaleida’s entry into our community and the significant reduction in life-saving healthcare services that have occurred over time—most notably the closing of Bradford Regional’s emergency room.
The people of Bradford and surrounding communities deserve a sustainable, long term healthcare system. Unfortunately, Kaleida Health is not protecting the public’s interest for the original charitable purposes associated with the former hospital.
I am also deeply concerned by reports of Kaleida Health pressing an unreasonable 10-year, non-compete clause on all attempted purchasers of Bradford Regional Medical Center. This brand of forced service market segmentation naturally results in market division which clearly violates the Sherman Anti-Trust Act.
Given the potential implications for preserving healthcare competition and rural healthcare access throughout the Bradford region, I have formally requested that the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General fully review the original charter and charitable purpose of Bradford Hospital, 1885 Articles of Incorporation, 2018 merger and related transaction documents that resulted in Kaleida’s control of Bradford Regional Medical Center, and whether the treatment of Bradford Hospital’s charitable assets have been appropriately maintained.
Regardless of any pending or future investigations, I will continue moving forward with Bradford area community leaders, McKean County officials, healthcare organizations, and other local, state and federal partners to identify innovative and affordable healthcare solutions our citizens and patients expect and deserve.
Our immediate priority is access to 24/7 emergency evaluation, stabilization, treatment and transfer. This work takes time, and we’re committed to getting it right.
Of course, none of these outcomes are possible without firmly establishing a foundation built on maximum transparency and accountability.
