Welch, WV (WOAY) In a statement, the McDowell County Commission says it recently became aware of discussions regarding the potential sale and privatization of Welch Community Hospital through public posts and was not included in any prior conversations.
Commissioners say there are still more questions than answers, but stress that Welch Community Hospital remains a critical healthcare resource for the region.
The commission says the hospital’s future should be discussed openly and transparently, citing concerns about healthcare access, services, jobs, and long-term stability.
Commissioners also note that Welch is the only hospital in McDowell County, while neighboring Wyoming County has no hospital, and Mercer County has just one remaining facility.
Delegate David Green says protecting the hospital has been his top priority since taking office in 2024.
He says he initially opposed the idea of privatization but changed his view after learning more about the hospital’s finances.
According to Green, the hospital costs roughly $35 million a year to operate while generating only $15 to $17 million in revenue, resulting in annual losses of up to $20 million.
He says state leaders from multiple administrations agree that West Virginia should not continue operating hospitals long-term.
Green says officials are exploring partnerships with private groups that could help the hospital qualify as a Critical Access Hospital.
The designation could bring increased federal reimbursement and improve financial stability.
He also emphasized that no agreement has been reached, nothing has been signed, and the hospital is not closing.
Green says several groups are being evaluated, and he remains committed to ensuring the hospital ends up in what he calls “the right hands.”
Both the commission and Green say they will continue seeking answers and sharing information with the public as discussions move forward.
We’ll provide further details on this story as developments are made.
