1 day ago
WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) - Residents and business leaders in Carthage are voicing concerns about potential cuts to North Star Health Alliance facilities following the organization's recent warning in bankruptcy court.
North Star operates Carthage Area Hospital, a family clinic, and Meadowbrook Terrace, a senior living facility, all serving the Carthage community.
Community Reaction
West Carthage resident Anne Rohr emphasized the importance of keeping the hospital open and fully operational.
“It’s a good hospital and it’s working well. We don’t need it to stop,” Rohr said. “It needs to be here.”
Deborah Atkins, Executive Director of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the hospital’s role as a major employer in the village and warned that layoffs would have a devastating impact.
“What an awful thing it would be to have those closed. We have so many kids who can go to school and if they don’t feel well, they can see someone there. We have many senior facilities in our community, and those seniors rely on Carthage Area Hospital and the services it provides,” Atkins said.
Workforce Support Available
The WorkPlace of Jefferson County stated it is ready to assist workers affected by any potential cuts.
Executive Director Cheryl Mayforth encouraged those impacted to reach out for support.
“We’re here to help. We don’t want people to feel helpless or unsupported if they need assistance, so please stop by,” Mayforth said.
Path Forward
Atkins expressed hope that North Star and the state Department of Health will work toward a solution that considers the community’s needs.
“Don’t think of it as just the pen striking the paper. Think of it as your mother, your children living in this community,” Atkins said.
State Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, who represents Carthage, declined to comment. Village elected officials did not respond to requests for comment.
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