Centegra Health Services has applied to the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board (IHFSRB) to relocate all in-patient hospitalization, intensive care and surgical services to other communities, and has already ceased those services in Woodstock, pending final approval by the state board.
To determine the community’s need for replacement of these services, the IHFSRB will conduct a public hearing, requested by City of Woodstock officials, at Woodstock Opera House, from 11am – 4pm on Monday, October 2, 2017. Attendees’ comments and concerns will be entered into the record to establish verification of community need, laying the foundation for positive consideration of future healthcare facility applications in Woodstock. “This is an opportunity for every resident to have a voice in the future of healthcare in our community,” according to Mayor Brian Sager.
The main Public Hearing will take place beginning at 11:00 am with specific timeframes assigned to each of the four (4) applications under review. The most important application review period for Woodstock is the 2:00pm to 3:00pm session where discontinuation of hospital beds in Woodstock will be reviewed.
In response to concerns from citizens, and with assistance from Rep. Steven Reick, City officials confirm an additional evening session has now been added. Between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, again at Woodstock Opera House, citizens will have the opportunity to share their concerns regarding the future of healthcare services in Woodstock. The evening session has no specific timeframes assigned to receive comments regarding the applications.
To register to provide Testimony, Oral or Written, or simply to Appear at either session of the Public Hearing, visit www.woodstockil.gov where registration forms have been posted. Questions may be directed to the City Manager’s Office at 815-338-4301.