REPORT URGES HEALTH CENTER CHANGES.(Local)

Byline: Kenneth C. Crowe II Staff writer

The merger that created the Columbia-Greene Medical Center in January 1988 is providing a base for health care in the two counties, but the medical center must work on correcting its financial problems and diversifying its health services, according to a recent report.

The study conducted by the Health Systems Agency of Northeastern New York came after representatives of the state Health Department asked the agency to study the medical center and make recommendations on the merger and appropriate follow-up actions.

"The HSA affirms that the merger was the appropriate path to take to ensure the provision of …