Sevier County, Ark., officials met Dec. 19 to discuss options for the continuation of healthcare services in the event De Queen (Ark.) Medical Center closes, according to the Texarkana Gazette.
The meeting included elected officials, medical providers, emergency responders, civic organizations and major employers.
"In light of the facts related to the financial woes of our local hospital, community leaders felt it necessary to develop a contingency plan for access to healthcare in Sevier County in the event of a hospital closure," Lisa Taylor, Sevier County economic development director, wrote in a press release obtained by Becker's.
Community leaders are still gathering facts on the situation at the hospital after hearing rumors related to the hospital's financial struggles, Ms. Taylor confirmed to Becker's.
Officials are aiming to keep the hospital open, but if it closes, local leaders will ensure Sevier County has a local, critical-access hospital, Ms. Taylor said.
Editor's note: Becker's reached out to De Queen Medical Center for comment and will update the article as more information becomes available.