Despite efforts to avoid closure by raising money through GoFundMe and soliciting donations from country music star Toby Keith, Pauls Valley (Okla.) Regional Medical Center opted to close its doors Oct. 12, according to the Pauls Valley Daily Democrat.
The hospital narrowly avoided closure in September. It raised enough money to cover payroll and overdue costs for employee health benefits for the month. However, after failing to raise enough money throughout October, the Pauls Valley Hospital Trust Authority voted to close the hospital.
"We have been fortunate enough to serve this community through thick and thin," the hospital posted on Facebook. "Unfortunately the time has arrived to close our doors, with no other path forward."
The decision to close the hospital came after meeting with Frank Avignone, the CEO of Alliance Health Partners, the interim hospital operator. Mr. Avignone started the GoFundMe page with a $2 million fundraising goal. Only $3,840 was raised.
The nearest hospital for Pauls Valley residents is about 30 miles away, according to the hospital's GoFundMe page.
Because of the closure, about 130 employees will lose their jobs.
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