Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today released the following statement on the announcement by West Virginia University (WVU) to temporarily acquire Fairmont Regional Medical Center (FRMC). WVU will be taking over the FRMC emergency department while they establish a new small hospital facility. Since last month when FRMC announced the closure of their facilities, Senator Manchin has worked tirelessly to ensure that Marion County residents receive the quality care they need.

“Rural hospitals are essential to providing access to the quality care every West Virginian and American deserves. Marion County and Fairmont are my home and I know how devastating the potential closure of FRMC would be to the Fairmont community and economy. I look forward to working with WVU and other healthcare providers in the state to ensure that the Fairmont community continues to receive quality care. The impact of the coronavirus outbreak on our healthcare system makes ensuring access to emergency care more vital than ever before. Continuing to keep rural hospitals and health centers open and functioning is essential to containing the spread of the coronavirus while providing quality care to those in need,” said Senator Manchin.

Last week, Senator Manchin launched an information resources page where West Virginians can learn more about the coronavirus outbreak and how to protect themselves and their families. To learn more please click here.