Renovo, Pa.-based Bucktail Medical Center received a $1 million state grant to help the struggling critical access hospital stay in operation, The Express reported Jan. 14.
John Lugg, president of the hospital's board of directors, said that in 2023, Bucktail faced a "significant ongoing financial shortfall" like many rural hospitals in the U.S., according to the report. He said the board was having discussions about whether the hospital would have to close, negatively affecting the health and well-being of our entire community and creating a profound loss for the Renovo and Western Clinton County communities."
In September 2023, the hospital created a GoFundMe page to help it stay afloat. In May 2024, Bucktail closed its long-term care facility.
Bucktail Medical Center CEO Laura Murnyack said that the $1 million Hospital and Health System Emergency Relief grant makes it possible for the hospital to continue serving the community's healthcare needs.
"Our doors remain open, and we offer comprehensive healthcare services for people of all ages, from infants to seniors," Ms. Murnyack said.
Ms. Murnyack said the grant will open the door for additional support from other sources.
The community also played a key part in helping Bucktail keep its doors open, according to the report. Efforts included a three-day volunteer event to perform maintenance tasks and improvements.