BRADFORD, PA — Kaleida Health has resumed the closure plan that was submitted in February for The Pavilion, the long-term care facility, at the former Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC).

On February 16, The Pavilion submitted a formal closure notice for its long-term care services to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH) due to ongoing and escalating pressures which made the continued operation of The Pavilion financially unsustainable. A copy of the closure plan was shared with the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General at that time. The notice was accepted and approved by the PADOH, with an original anticipated closure date of May 2.

On February 25, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and Kaleida Health began discussions regarding the potential acquisition by LECOM of the former BRMC campus, including The Pavilion. Kaleida Health temporarily paused the closure plan while the organizations explored whether an agreement could provide a sustainable path forward for the campus and the Bradford community.

Those discussions continued over the following months. On September 8, the LECOM Board of Directors met and voted not to move forward with the transaction. On September 9, Kaleida Health was made aware of the decision. Discussions between the organizations have concluded and LECOM will not be acquiring The Pavilion.

As a result, Kaleida Health will resume the closure plan for The Pavilion that was originally submitted to PADOH in February. The plan was resubmitted and accepted to PADOH on September 14, with an anticipated closure date on or before December 1.

“We understand how deeply personal this is for our residents, their families and our employees,” said Don Boyd, CEO, Kaleida Health. “For many residents, The Pavilion is their home. For our employees, it is a place where they have cared for people they know and love. We recognize that a transition like this brings uncertainty, concern and emotion, and we will do everything we can to support those who are affected.”

The Pavilion is more than a long-term care facility. It is a home for residents and a place where dedicated employees have built relationships with residents and their families while providing care, comfort, hope and championship. Kaleida Health understands the significance of this decision and the uncertainty it creates, and we are committed to approaching the transition with compassion and respect.

Throughout the discussions with LECOM, Kaleida Health remained committed to finding an agreement that would be an alternative to closure, consistent with the charitable mission of both organizations and, most importantly, serve the long-term care needs of the community.

The Pavilion currently serves 45 residents. Kaleida Health’s highest priority throughout this transition will be the health, safety and well-being of every resident. The Pavilion team will work closely with residents and their families to provide information, answer questions and help identify appropriate alternative care settings. There are currently two other long-term care facilities in Bradford and six additional facilities in the surrounding area.

“We know that moving from a place you have called home is emotional,” said Boyd. “Our responsibility is to make sure every resident and family receives the individualized attention, compassion, respect and support they deserve throughout this process. We will take the time necessary to help make this transition as thoughtful and supportive as possible.”

The Pavilion’s employees have played an important role in caring for residents and supporting their families. Kaleida Health is committed to supporting the 80 employees affected by the closure and will work directly with them to identify employment opportunities within Kaleida Health, including Olean General Hospital.

Kaleida Health will continue to communicate with residents, families, employees, providers and the community as additional details regarding the transition become available.