Paris, Tenn.– A local, nonprofit organization is asking residents of Henry and surrounding counties to show their support during an upcoming meeting that will explore the possibility of the Obstetrics Unit returning to Henry County Medical Center.
Northwest Tennessee Cares is sending a call-to-action for the community to attend the HCMC’s board meeting, which is set 5 p.m. Thursday, March 28, with a tentative location in the hospital’s basement classroom.
This meeting will address the proposed leasing of HCMC and will be followed by a second meeting featuring presentations from entities interested in partnering with HCMC through a leasing process.
HCMC is seeking a partner that is willing to lease the hospital, re-open the OB unit and create a cardiac unit. The idea is that by leasing HCMC, reimbursement rates for services would increase while administrative costs would be reduced. As part of the hospital’s continuing strategic planning, potential partners will take the floor following the HCMC Board meeting.
“Northwest Tennessee Cares commends the HCMC Board of Directors for working toward a brighter future for our region,” Susan Jones of NWTN Cares said. “We understand the financial position of the hospital and the lease proposal may improve HCMC’s finances. However, our chief concern is that the reopening of the OB Unit be deemed non-negotiable as the evaluation process continues.”
“Northwest Tennesseans can drive this point home by simply showing up,” according to Ken Banasiewicz of NWTN Cares. “If you have been directly or indirectly affected by the closure of the Henry County Medical Center’s OB unit, please attend this HCMC Board meeting.”
Citizens of Henry County may address the board for three minutes each as part of the public comment period. During the presentation portion of the meeting, only questions and comments from the board will be allowed.
“We ask those in attendance to be especially courteous during the meetings,” Jones said. “One of these potential partners could be operating our hospital in the future. They deserve to be welcomed and appreciated.”
Photo – Marsha Banasiewicz, Susan Jones and Natalie Norwood raise signs in support of the Henry County Medical Center OB Unit during a July 25, 2023 march organized by Northwest Tennessee Cares.