Medican Merger Hits Speed Bump

Kaleida Health and Erie County Medical Center have worked out a deal to merge, as was ordered by a state commission. Now there is word that the State Health Commissioner has some questions about part of the deal. Commissioner Richard Daines reportedly wants clarification of who has the power to veto plans for new medical procedures and equipment. Judge John Curran, who helped administer the deal, says he will be working to smooth over details needed to get the commissioners' final approval.

Kaleida and ECMC Make a Deal

Kaleida Health and ECMC have reached an agreement to merge the two. The new deal opens the door for construction of a heart and vascular center on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, and also settles a lawsuit filed by ECMC against New York State, for using state aid to help Kaleida's Millard Fillmore Gates Circle hospital.

ECMC-Kaleida Deal Coming?

A deal may be getting closer between Kaleida and ECMC. County Executive Chris Collins says he's "cautiously optimistic." A Kaleida spokesman confirms an agreement may be close. Collins expects the deal could go to Albany for approval by Friday.

Missing Senior Found at ECMC

Buffalo Police have located an 83-year-old woman who'd been missing since a visit to the Broadway Market yesterday. Stella Szudcik was shopping with her sister, but the two separated and Stella did not return. She was later found at ECMC where she'd been admitted after being hit by a car at Broadway and Lombard Street. Szudcik is in critical condition with head trauma. Because Szudzik had no identification on her, she was taken to the hospital as a Jane Doe. The driver was not charged.

Heart and Stroke Center Could be Built

Kaleida Health and ECMC have endorsed a joint proposal to build a heart and stroke center at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. The cost could reach $150 million, with state official suggesting that funding will be available. We have high rates of heart disease and stroke in our area.