(STURGIS) – The Sturgis City Commission received an update on Sturgis Hospital during their meeting Wednesday evening.

Hospital Board member Joe Haas did have some good news to share with the City Commission. ...... {LISTEN}.

Haas says the one exception is Fastcare inside the Sturgis Meijer Store, which still operates under Sturgis Hospital. Certain covenant issues prohibited the transfer to Ascension at this time.

Haas says conversation is continuing between Sturgis Hospital and Ascension Borgess. ...... {LISTEN}.

Haas says with the transfer of the Sturgis Medical Group offices, he is hoping that the next level of discussions regarding the operation of the Hospital will start soon. He says Ascension officials are in agreement that Sturgis Hospital needs to stay in the community.

Haas also reminded the Commission and the audience that Sturgis Hospital is still facing financial issues and the number of visits to the ER and other departments are down. Haas says Sturgis Hospital is open and here to meet the needs of the community.