IV healthcare workers protest against consolidation

EL CENTRO, Cali. (KYMA, KECY) - Dozens of Imperial County healthcare professionals are speaking out.

They're upset over El Centro Regional Medical Center’s (ECRMC) decision to close the pediatric and obstetric’s departments.

El Centro Regional Medical Center’s decision to consolidate two crucial departments over to Pioneers Memorial has drawn the ire of many healthcare workers here in the Imperial Valley.

Over 200 locals were in attendance Monday night, including doctors, nurses, and concerned citizens.

All are concerned over ECRMC's decision to shut down the pediatric and obstetric's departments.

Community leaders say this decision will not only affect health care in the Imperial Valley but also slow down economic advancement.

“It’s a quality of life issue," said Cheryl Viegas-Walker, former El Centro mayor and community activist. "It’s an economic issue for the future of our valley.”

But current ECRMC CEO Scott Phillips says this decision will only help strengthen health care in the valley.

“By combining our program with there’s, we see that as a significant enhancement of maternal and child health services in the community,” said Phillips.

Some 60 or so nurses say that not all of the positions were guaranteed as a result of this decision.

Phillips says that is untrue stating that no jobs will be lost during this transition.