#United States #Allegheny Health Network #New Kensington #Teamsters Local 30

Community Members Unite for Healthcare

On October 8, members of Teamsters Local 30 will gather at the Allegheny Health Network’s New Kensington Express and Primacy Care facility to speak out against a potential closure of the clinic. This rally, attended by local representatives and community members, comes at a critical time when healthcare accessibility is a pressing concern for residents in the area.

Background on AHN and the Closure Threat

Recently, the management of Allegheny Health Network (AHN) announced its plans to shut down the New Kensington facility. This clinic is vital as it is the only AHN facility serving the New Kensington area, which predominantly consists of elderly residents who depend on nearby healthcare services. The closure not only poses a challenge for medical care accessibility but also forces residents to seek in-network care across the Allegheny River in another town.

This move follows a significant labor victory for workers at the facility, particularly the first successful unionization of nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania. The recent closure announcement has raised concerns about potential retaliatory actions from the AHN against this union formation, leading to Teamsters Local 30 filing an unfair labor practice charge.

Demands from Teamsters Local 30

Teamsters Local 30, representing healthcare workers at AHN, demands that the facility remain open to continue serving the thousands of residents who rely on it for their healthcare needs. Members of Local 30 argue that the clinic's closure would disproportionately impact the elderly community, forcing them to travel further distances for necessary medical attention.

“Closing this facility means putting the health of our residents at risk, who often cannot travel far due to age or health conditions,” stated Gino Bessetti, President of Local 30. “We're here to fight for our community, and we will not stand by while this vital service is taken away.”

Rally Details

The rally is set to take place:

• - Date: Wednesday, October 8
• - Time: 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM
• - Location: 305 7th Street, New Kensington, PA 15068

Prominent speakers at the rally will include Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-PA 17th District), Westmoreland County Commissioner Ted Kopas, and members of Local 30, who will all address the gathering and share their perspectives on the importance of maintaining healthcare access in the community.

Community Support and Solidarity

Support from the wider community has been evident as local residents voice their concerns over the closure plan. Many families, especially those with elderly members, understand the critical role that local healthcare facilities play in maintaining health and well-being. The rally not only aims to raise awareness about the potential closure but also seeks to unite the community in advocating for accessible healthcare services.

As the rally approaches, the sentiment among community members remains robust: healthcare is a right, and no one should be forced further away from medical treatment due to facility closures. This event is a significant step towards ensuring that healthcare services remain close to home. The Teamsters and their allies will continue to fight until their message is heard and action is taken to preserve essential healthcare in New Kensington.