Medical center will continue to press for cardiac surgery unit

On behalf of the entire Community Medical Center and the Saint Barnabas Health Care System, I would like to thank the thousands of residents, business leaders and government officials who supported our recent application for cardiac surgery.

Tens of thousands of postcards, letters and e-mails were sent to Trenton, along with several resolutions from area town councils and the Ocean County Freeholders. We are exceptionally grateful for this support and the overwhelming dedication to bring cardiac surgery to Community Medical Center.

Unfortunately, the Department of Health and Senior Services denied our application, despite the outpouring of support from our community. As a result, the Saint Barnabas Health Care System will be filing suit on behalf of Community Medical Center against the Department of Health and Senior Services and the state of New Jersey to have the decision for denial reversed.

We stand by our belief that cardiac surgery is a necessity in this county and urge you to let your legislators know the same. Community Medical Center is committed to bringing a world-class cardiac surgery program right here to Ocean County and will continue this quest on behalf of the patients and families we serve.

Nancy L. Wollen

Executive Director

Community Medical Center

Toms River