Editor, OBSERVER:

The health needs of a community can change over time, especially in rural areas. What matters most is making sure people can get care close to home, when they need it.

You may have seen that Bradford Regional Medical Center recently closed its inpatient and emergency department services. Changes like this can be difficult for patients, families and the community — and can raise questions about where to turn for care.

At UPMC, our focus is to make sure care remains accessible, reliable, and easy to navigate. We are committed to supporting people where they are and helping them to continue their care without interruption.

Across northwest Pennsylvania and western New York, emergency (ER) and inpatient hospital care are available 24/7 at UPMC Kane, UPMC Chautauqua, UPMC Northwest, UPMC Hamot and UPMC Cole.

We care for people every day at our outpatient locations in Bradford, Warren, Kane, Smethport and surrounding communities. We also offer convenient care options, including home health care visits and virtual visits with a provider by video.

Our physicians, nurses and staff are part of our communities. They understand the impact of changes like this and are committed to providing care that is steady, compassionate and close to home.

We are also working closely with emergency medical services (EMS) partners across the region to help make sure patients can get to the right place for care without confusion or delay.

Health care will continue to evolve. UPMC remains focused on supporting the communities we serve and helping people access the care they need.

Brian Durniok,

Market President, UPMC Northwest Pa. and Western New York, and President, UPMC Hamot

Jonathan Bailey,

President, UPMC Northwest

Tracy Gates,

President, UPMC Chautauqua

And four other UPMC executives