Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: June 26, 2008

HEALTH DEPARTMENT SUPPORTS DECISION TO APPOINT SPECIAL MASTER AT LANDMARK MEDICAL CENTER

Director of Health David Gifford, MD, MPH today issued the following statement regarding the appointment of a special master to oversee the operations of Landmark Medical Center.

“The Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Health (HEALTH) have been working with Landmark Medical Center over the past few weeks and fully support Landmark actions as well as the Court’s appointment of Jonathan Savage, Esq. as Special Master.

“HEALTH is ready to work closely with the court and special master as they take over all decision making and merger negotiations of Landmark.”

“The role of HEALTH related to Landmark has not changed, as the licensing agency, HEALTH will continue to review applications for change of effective control, Certificate of Need and with the Attorney General any applications for mergers or conversions.”

“This is unique situation for the staff, supporters and patients of Landmark Medical Center. HEALTH believes this is the right step for assuring those in Northern RI continue to receive health care services.”