Chester pushes for return of health services 9 months after hospital's closing

February 15, 2026 - 09:53

Nine months after the sudden closure of Crozer-Chester Medical Center, the city of Chester continues to grapple with a deepening healthcare crisis. Residents are now routinely forced to travel beyond city limits, often more than 30 minutes each way, to access essential medical services, emergency care, and routine appointments.

The closure has left a significant void, particularly impacting the elderly, low-income families, and those without reliable transportation. What were once quick trips for urgent care or chronic condition management have transformed into lengthy and costly expeditions to hospitals in neighboring municipalities. Community advocates and local officials emphasize that the extended travel times are more than an inconvenience; they represent a dangerous barrier to timely treatment that could worsen health outcomes.

The push to restore some level of comprehensive health services within the city has become a central issue for Chester. Voices from across the community are calling for urgent solutions, arguing that accessible healthcare is a fundamental right and a critical component of the city's well-being and recovery. The ongoing situation underscores the severe impact a hospital closure can have on an urban community, turning everyday healthcare into a significant logistical challenge.