On Saturday, a crowd of patients, physicians, and local leaders assembled in downtown Schenectady to voice concerns over St. Peter’s Health Partners’ enforcement of non‑compete provisions tied to cardiology employment contracts. The rally highlighted a growing dispute between St. Peter’s and Ellis Medicine, the region’s other major health system, over the continuity of cardiac care for residents.
Local officials lead the criticism
Schenectady County Legislator Michelle Ostrelich, who co‑organized the event, warned that the hospital’s strict enforcement is jeopardizing patient access. “If they weren’t enforcing the non‑compete that they put into those cardiology employment contracts, we wouldn’t be here. And how dare they try and enforce a non‑compete against 27 cardiologists,” Ostrelich said.
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara joined the protest, urging support for his proposed Central Health Care Act. The legislation would prohibit the enforcement of non‑compete agreements in the medical field, whether signed or unsigned. “This bill basically says these non‑compete agreements, however they came to be, should not be enforced,” Santabarbara explained.
Ellis Medicine’s response
Ellis Medicine thanked the community for its backing and assured patients that continuity of care will remain through 2027. In a statement, the health system noted, “Twenty‑two cardiologists have signed employment agreements with us, and we have successfully recruited additional physicians from outside the area who want to be part of the future of health care in Schenectady.”
Ellis also provided a dedicated phone line (518‑382‑CARD) and online scheduling for patients seeking appointments with cardiologists in 2027, emphasizing its commitment to uninterrupted service.
St. Peter’s stance
St. Peter’s Health Partners issued a statement addressing patients who might consider transferring their care. A spokesperson said, “For any patient who chooses to transition their care elsewhere, we will assist in facilitating that transition and help ensure continuity of care. While Ellis declined our proposals to extend current services while a long‑term solution is pursued, we remain committed to working collaboratively toward an outcome that best serves patients and the Schenectady community.”
Why the dispute matters
Non‑compete clauses in health care have become a flashpoint nationwide, as they can limit physician mobility and reduce competition, potentially driving up costs and limiting patient choice. Advocates for the ban argue that such agreements hinder the ability of hospitals to recruit and retain specialists, especially in high‑need areas like cardiology.
Critics of the ban contend that non‑compete clauses protect health systems’ investments in training and equipment, ensuring that physicians who benefit from these resources remain in the community. The debate in Schenectady reflects this broader tension between protecting institutional interests and preserving patient access.
Next steps
The rally underscored strong community demand for legislative action. Santabarbara’s bill will next be considered by the state Assembly’s health committee, where supporters hope it will gain bipartisan backing. Meanwhile, both health systems have pledged to keep lines of communication open with patients and local officials as the dispute unfolds.
Residents seeking more information about cardiology services or wishing to voice their concerns can contact Ellis Medicine’s dedicated line or attend upcoming town‑hall meetings scheduled by the county legislature.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
