“We are deeply saddened by this news. We take seriously the potential loss of any health care provider, and we understand the deep connections that can be formed between a hospital and the community it serves.

“The corporate leadership of Steward Health Care must be held accountable to ensure they are actively working to support their local doctors while they work with patients and their families to find the best possible care alternative. While they have committed to do so, we will actively work with the local health care community to ensure they properly follow through on that pledge.

“Nevertheless, we are optimistic that area residents will still be able to access quality care close to home. As many local residents are aware, Mercy Health St. Joseph Hospital is located close by (1.5 miles away) and Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown (a large facility with more than 400 beds) is less than 15 miles away.

“We will continue to monitor this situation and provide whatever support we can for the region and its health care providers.”