WASHINGTON, D.C. —On Wednesday, May 16 Congressman Robert Aderholt announces that Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, Alabama has been sold to new owners. This news comes after the Congressman worked with USDA to allow the sale of the hospital in an effort to support the health needs of this rural community.
The Winfield Healthcare Authority purchased the hospital from Curae of Gallatin, Tennessee, which also owns Russellville Hospital, and until recently, owned Lakeland Hospital in Haleyville.
Robert Aderholt
“This is the perfect example of the federal government working with the local government and trying to make sure that rural hospitals stay open, “said Congressman Robert Aderholt.
Local hospitals have been closing across the country, particularly in rural America, after the Affordable Care Act restructured reimbursements paid to hospitals from the federal government. Lakeland Hospital in Haleyville almost closed its doors for this very reason, but Congressman Aderholt was able to facilitate a similar agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
“Over the past several years, especially under Obamacare, it’s been very hard on rural America and rural hospitals,” Aderholt went on to say. “But the Trump Administration has reached out to rural America to try and make sure that rural hospitals like Winfield and Haleyville stay open.”
Congressman Aderholt says there could be more good news in the near future.
“We are also working with the hospital in Russellville and hopefully we will have some good news on that in the coming weeks.”
Congressman Aderholt says it took a team effort from all involved to ensure the future of the hospital in Winfield.
“We have to thank everyone in Winfield who worked together to keep the hospital open, as well as USDA Secretary Perdue and everyone at the USDA.”
The transfer of Northwest Medical Center to the Winfield Healthcare Authority took place on Friday, May 11th. The hospital will receive guidance from St. Vincent’s Healthcare System.
Media Releasse/Carson G. Clark, Press Secretary Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-4)
