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New York state remains committed to maintaining health care in Western New York. Just how ready it is to release funding for Brooks-TLC Hospital System and a new facility is still in question.
This week, in an email to The Post-Journal and OBSERVER, a health department spokeswoman indicated the state is engaged with the Brooks-TLC issue but would not comment on the future of the more than $70 million that was set aside in 2016 and 2017. "Gov. Kathy Hochul is committed to ensuring that every New Yorker has access to essential health services where and when they need it most, and the Department of Health continues to work closely with local stakeholders, Brooks Memorial Hospital leadership and other healthcare providers in Chautauqua County," noted the statement.
Response from the state Health Department came after a letter, signed by state, county and municipal leaders, backing the construction of a new Brooks-TLC facility in Fredonia on East Main Street on land that has been purchased nearly across the street from the Fredonia Central Schools. Brooks-TLC, which has lost more than $55 million from 2018 to 2021, believes a new facility would reduce annual deficits to around $3 million. In addition, the downsized location would help in recruiting new medical staff to the region.
New York state has contributed $40 million in subsidies to keep the current Brooks-TLC site in operation at 529 Central Ave. through the Vital Access Provider Assurance Program during those four years. It is hoped a new facility, according to the letter, will enhance community health while reducing those state funds.
"The community has rallied in strong support of the proposed new micro hospital with inpatient beds," said the letter from Sen. George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Goodell. "Recently, a rally sponsored by the New York State Nurses Association and SEIU-1099 drew a large crowd in support of the proposed new hospital, including top elected Democrat and Republican officials."
Plans for a Brooks-TLC micro hospital call for emergency services with 12 bays, 15 medical and surgical beds, four surgical suites and two rooms for procedure, imaging with CT scans, MRI and ultrasound, stat lab services, a pharmacy, support services and a helipad. Brooks-TLC purchased the land previously owned by Cornell Cooperative Extension in June.