The planned closing of hospital and healthcare services at Crozer Health is now generating resident protests, writes Pete Bannan for the Daily Times.

Protesters rallied near Crozer-Chester Medical Center Monday

The demonstration was organized by the Southeast Pennsylvania Healthcare Rights Committee of Put People First! PA. A second protest is set Thursday at Delaware County Memorial Hospital.

“We are outraged that Crozer Health is taking away critical, life-saving services and good union jobs from our local hospitals…” said protester Jamie Blair.

Many of the protestors came from nearby neighborhoods, residents who rely on the Crozer Healthcare system.

Chester resident Will Jones wants for-profit corporations out of the hospital business.

 “It’s a fundamental conflict of interest,” Jones said. “They should have something that puts people first.”

Carol Kazeem of Chester wants health prioritized over money and worries that those in recovery will be back out on the street without mental health services.

One protester said cuts to EMS and ambulance services mean it will take longer for help to arrive.  

Other residents will have to travel further for help.

Chester resident Suzanne Muschamp said she can’t afford it if Crozer leaves. She has no car and can’t drive.

Read more at the Daily Times about protests over Crozer Health closings.