MCDOWELL COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The McDowell County Commission says it is seeking answers following reports of potential discussions involving the sale or privatization of Welch Community Hospital, emphasizing the facility’s importance to healthcare access in southern West Virginia.
In a statement, the commission said it was not informed of any ongoing discussions regarding the hospital and only became aware of the possibility through public posts.
“We have recently become aware of discussions regarding the potential sale or privatization of Welch Community Hospital,” the commission said.
“Like many residents, we first learned of these developments through public posts and were not made aware of any ongoing discussions beforehand, despite the significant impact such decisions could have on our county.”
Commission members said they are gathering information before reaching any conclusions but stressed the hospital’s critical role in the region.
“At this time, there are more questions than answers. We intend to gather all available information and fully understand what is being proposed before drawing any final conclusions. However, one thing is certain: Welch Community Hospital is a critical asset to McDowell County and the surrounding region.”
The commission noted that healthcare access has become increasingly important in southern West Virginia, citing the limited number of hospitals serving the area.
“With only one hospital remaining in Mercer County, Welch being the only hospital in McDowell County, and no hospital in Wyoming County, access to local healthcare is more important than ever. Our residents deserve quality healthcare services close to home.”
Officials also highlighted the public investment that has supported the hospital over the years and called for transparency regarding any decisions about its future.
“Over the years, countless taxpayer dollars and resources have been invested in sustaining this hospital. We are fortunate to have it, and we believe its future should be discussed openly and transparently with the people it serves.”
The commission expressed disappointment that local leaders were apparently not included in discussions about the hospital’s future.
“We are disappointed that local leaders were apparently not included in these discussions. Perhaps that is because our position has always been clear: we strongly believe Welch Community Hospital should remain open and continue serving the people of southern West Virginia. We also have serious questions about what privatization could mean for healthcare access, services, jobs, and long-term stability.”
The statement also argued that residents should have a voice in decisions affecting the community.
“Accepting ‘it’s better than nothing’ should never be the standard for McDowell County. Our citizens deserve more than scraps, and our communities deserve a seat at the table when decisions of this magnitude are being considered.”
The commission said it plans to continue investigating the matter and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
“We will be doing our homework, asking the hard questions, and seeking answers. As we learn more, we will share that information with the public.”
“The future of Welch Community Hospital is too important to leave unanswered.”
