Washington, D.C.--At a time when we are debating health care across the entire country rumors of the possible closing of Mount Vernon Hospital, or its cutting back on services, bring only distress and worry to the people of Mount Vernon and others who depend on that facility for their wellbeing.

The people of Mount Vernon and the surrounding area deserve to know what plans are in store for this hospital, on which so many depend for health services. We need better health care, not limited health care. Mount Vernon Hospital has served the people well. Now we need to know from the hospital whether this good care will continue or if there are problems to be faced. The people served by the hospital deserve no less.