WATERTOWN, NY – Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) today announced that he recently met with Andrew Manzer, the newly appointed chief executive officer of North Star Health Alliance (NSHA), and came away encouraged and optimistic about the organization’s direction during what remains a challenging period for health care in the North Country.

“This was a very positive and productive meeting,” said Assemblyman Gray. “I came away genuinely confident that Andrew Manzer understands the full magnitude of what is in front of him—both the immediate need for short-term stabilization and the longer-term work of clinical alignment with partner organizations. His focus is on protecting services and ensuring that communities across our region, especially in St. Lawrence County, continue to have access to the health care they depend on.”

During the meeting, CEO Manzer briefed Assemblyman Gray on the organization’s ongoing restructuring efforts, including continued engagement with the New York State Department of Health, which the CEO described as constructive and positive. Manzer also outlined early-stage discussions regarding potential collaboration opportunities with other health care providers—not as a means of consolidating or reducing services but as a strategy for achieving long-term stability and high-quality care for North Country residents.

“This is about working with other organizations to ensure viability and access to care close to home,” Gray said. “The CEO understands our partnership is designed to, ultimately, enhance services in our communities, not water them down. The people of the North Country deserve local access to the care they need, and I will continue to advocate firmly for that.”

Gray also noted that as part of the Chapter 11 proceedings, a court-appointed patient care ombudsman has been assigned to North Star Health Alliance. The ombudsman will conduct onsite visits across NSHA campuses and serve as an independent resource to help ensure the quality and safety of patient care throughout the restructuring process, providing an additional layer of accountability for both patients and staff.

Assemblyman Gray called on the New York State Department of Health, including the Commissioner, to take a constructive view of the new leadership at NSHA.