Allegheny Health Network is closing a primary care practice in New Kensington, Pa., Trib Live reported Sept. 24.
Mark Kerr, a member of Teamsters Local 30, told the publication the closure will affect more than 3,000 patients and 12 employees. The union is planning a rally to save the clinic Oct. 8.
AHN spokesperson William Toland told Trib Live the office is shutting down because it has only one physician, who is leaving the organization.
Mr. Kerr accused AHN of attempting to prevent unionization. He said that before AHN announced the closure, seven of the 12 employees voted to join Local 30.
“There’s really no reason to close the office, other than they don’t want to have a unionized workforce,” Mr. Kerr said. “Hospitals across the country are unionizing because they’re underpaid, understaffed and tired of it.”
Mr. Toland said the physician leading the practice notified AHN of their departure before the union vote occurred.
Becker’s has reached out to AHN for additional information and will update this story as it develops.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.