The Washington Health System, which serves over 300,000 individuals, is facing financial difficulties and may have to merge with UPMC. This decision is critical as the future of healthcare in the area hangs in the balance. Despite opposition from the Service Employees International Union, leaders like Mayor JoJo Burgess are advocating for the merger and urging Governor Josh Shapiro to intervene and finalize it.
Francis Kino, an employee of Washington Health System, expressed concerns about the future of healthcare if the merger does not go through. However, Mayor Burgess believes that this merger is essential for the well-being of the community and should not be delayed due to external conflicts. State Rep. Tim O’Neal emphasizes that the disagreements between the union and UPMC are centered in Pittsburgh and should not impact the situation in Washington. He is calling on Governor Shapiro to intervene and finalize the merger to ensure continued access to healthcare for the community.
The board of Washington Health System has already accepted a 10-year agreement with UPMC, which includes terms to maintain services, retain all employees, and receive a significant investment from UPMC. Efforts to reach out to Governor Shapiro and Attorney General Josh Shapiro for comments on this matter have not been successful at this time.
