LECOM to acquire BRMC campus, skilled nursing facility
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) is in discussions with Kaleida Health to acquire the Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) campus, including The Pavilion.
The proposed acquisition remains subject to the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements between LECOM and Kaleida Health, officials said, as well as receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals.
“This is fantastic news for Bradford and our entire region,” said state Rep. Martin Causer, R-Turtlepoint. “I’m glad to see this positive outcome from our negotiations, and I’m confident it will lead to enhanced access to healthcare services here. This critical first step enables our community to work with a Pennsylvania healthcare system as a partner to strengthen services in the region.”
State Sen. Cris Dush, R-Brookville, said, “Given our experiences with Kaleida, I’m hesitant to express my thoughts on what the final agreement will be. That stated, the experiences I’ve had since taking office gives me confidence that there is a commitment throughout the Bradford area to restore a vibrant hospital and I’m committed to do whatever is in my authority to do in partnering with all of them.”
Plans to close The Pavilion — BRMC’s 95-bed skilled nursing facility — and relocate residents are on hold. Its current 54 residents will remain in place while LECOM assumes operations and works to ensure continuity of care.
Bradford City Police Chief Michael Ward called Thursday’s announcement “a positive development and a step in the right direction.
“I want to emphasize that my thoughts are also with the dedicated employees who work at Bradford Regional Medical Center and The Pavilion,” Ward continued. “These healthcare professionals have served Bradford faithfully for years. They deserve stability, clarity, and reassurance about their future. Any steps that preserve jobs and maintain services are welcome news.”
Previously announced plans to close BRMC’s 20-bed inpatient unit and emergency department remain in place.
Causer stressed that “we still have hurdles ahead. Our focus now is finding a solution to keep the emergency department open. It’s imperative for our community to continue having quick access to lifesaving emergency care.”
Ward echoed Causer’s concern, stating “there are still significant unknowns,” adding the department relies on ER services daily — for mental health commitments, assault investigations, DUI blood draws, medical clearances and emergency treatment for victims and officers alike.
LECOM is a large, multi‑campus medical school and academic health system that trains physicians, dentists, pharmacists and other health‑science professionals across Pennsylvania, Florida and New York. It is one of the nation’s largest medical schools, producing more primary‑care physicians than any other program, and operates LECOM Health, the only osteopathic academic health center in the country.
Through its hospitals, clinics and senior‑care network, LECOM blends education with clinical care, positioning itself as a major regional force in healthcare delivery, workforce development and community partnerships.
“LECOM’s involvement reflects a long-term commitment to sustaining healthcare access in Bradford and strengthening the campus as a vital community resource,” Kaleida officials said in a press release. “LECOM’s ownership and leadership will support long-term stability, growth and expanded opportunities for healthcare education and services at the BRMC campus.”
Officials said Kaleida Health will continue providing outpatient and ambulatory services on the BRMC campus. The organization plans to collaborate with LECOM on leasing arrangements that allow Kaleida to deliver primary and specialty outpatient care on campus, “ensuring the continuation of essential healthcare services for the Bradford community.”
“Together, LECOM and Kaleida Health are committed to a collaborative transition that preserves access to care, supports employees and reinforces the BRMC campus as a cornerstone of healthcare for the Bradford region.
Additional details regarding operations and leasing arrangements will be shared as the transition progresses, Kaleida Health officials said.
Causer said, “I want to welcome LECOM Health to our community. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with LECOM officials, community leaders, our dedicated healthcare professionals and fellow elected officials to strengthen access to the healthcare services our citizens need and deserve.”
Bradford Mayor Tom Riel and Bradford Fire Chief Brett Butler couldn’t be reached for comment by press time Thursday.
