SC voters urged to back Loris/McLeod hospital merger

A group of local residents and politicians are urging Horry County voters to go to the polls Nov. 1 to support Loris Healthcare System's proposed merger with McLeod Health, a move they say will improve the quality of local health care and help the economy. Loris Healthcare System, which was created by the state as the Loris Community Hospital District in 1946, must get public approval to merge because it is a state entity. The system includes Loris Community Hospital, Seacoast Medical Center and Loris Extended Care. The draft referendum says: "Should Loris Community Hospital District, which includes Loris Community Hospital, Seacoast Medical Center and Loris Extended Care, transfer its assets and properties to McLeod Regional Medical Center or a McLeod Health affiliate, upon the assumption by McLeod Regional medical Center or a McLeod Health affiliate, of the obligations and responsibilities of the Loris Community Hospital District for the delivery of healthcare services?"