State Legislators Introduce Bills to Require Department of Health Approval for Hospital Purchases

State Sen. Katie Muth and State Reps. Dan Williams, Christina Sappey, and Danielle Friel Otten have announced companion legislation in the House and Senate to require approval from the Department of Health before a hospital or hospital system can be purchased in Pennsylvania. The press conference was held at the former Brandywine Hospital in Coatesville, which was one of two Chester County hospitals closed by Tower Health after a proposed sale fell through. The closures have had a significant impact on the community, with more than 34,000 patients visiting the emergency rooms of the two hospitals in 2020. The proposed legislation aims to increase transparency and public oversight in the process of hospital purchases, as well as require price transparency from hospitals. Sen. Muth emphasized the importance of protecting access to quality healthcare and employment opportunities in all communities across the Commonwealth. The Senate version of the bill is currently being drafted, while the House version has been introduced as House Bill 2704.