Welch Community Hospital's future clouded by privatization push, CAH questions
Welch Community Hospital faces an uncertain future as West Virginia Del. David Green (R-McDowell) advocates for privatization and a federal Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designation, according to Black By God. Green has publicly argued the designation would help the rural facility, citing a similar hospital in southern West Virginia that has operated profitably for nearly 15 years.
The hospital reportedly loses between $18 million and $20 million annually, with operating costs of about $35 million against revenues of $15–$17 million. The West Virginia Department of Health stated there is no intent to close the hospital, but the state is exploring options to ensure long-term care in McDowell County. Gov. Patrick Morrisey's office has not confirmed any current negotiations with a prospective buyer.
A CAH designation would cap Welch's acute care beds at 25, down from the current 65. Dr. Michael A. (Tony) Kelly, chief of staff, said Green has not discussed the matter with hospital leadership or local officials. The state owns the hospital, but the land was donated in 1899 by J. J. Sperry for hospital purposes, raising questions about whether the state can legally sell the property. A public meeting on Aug. 6 did not resolve those questions.