Lawmakers Block 4 Million In Grants From Partially Closed Weiss Hospital, Demand Repairs

State lawmakers have blocked $4 million in grant aid to the closed Weiss Hospital, citing owner Manoj Prasad's failure to engage with them regarding an appeal to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services. State Sen. Mike Simmons expressed frustration over Prasad's lack of communication as the appeal deadline nears. Community organizers rallied outside the hospital, emphasizing the adverse effects of its closure on local residents, including job losses and increased pressure on nearby healthcare facilities. Lilly Le of the Vietnamese Association of Illinois described the closure as devastating and criticized Prasad's management.

In response, Prasad claimed that his purchase of the hospital in 2022 prevented a permanent shutdown. He questioned why the community did not support his efforts earlier. Local leaders, including Ald. Angela Clay, accused Prasad of mismanagement and suggested his motives may involve exploiting the hospital's valuable real estate. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between private equity ownership and community health needs.