The Department of Health (DOH) ordered the Hillcrest abortion facility to close after state inspectors found numerous violations and stated that it has until August 31 to make corrections, comply with state laws, and pass another inspection before it can reopen.
 
        

Three state senators wrote a letter to the DOH questioning why it hasn't pulled the license for Hillcrest considering it has violated Pennsylvania health laws four times in six years. The facility was cited for numerous issues including improper staffing, expired medications and medical supplies, and failing to follow anesthesia policies for surgical abortions. A March inspection report found that Hillcrest did not have a registered nurse on staff and twice failed to provide documentation showing that its physician was board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. The facility also was not in compliance with the Child Protective Services Law. Hillcrest treated patients younger than 18, but at least eight employees did not have the required background checks. 

                                            Pro-Life Sidewalk Counselor Before Hillcrest Closed

Some medications at Hillcrest were stored a year or more after their expiration dates (a repeat violation), including 20 chlamydia and gonorrhea swabs that expired in 2004. Additionally, seven needles and syringes were "in paper wraps that were physically deteriorated and yellow with age."

Liberty Counsel represented Becky Biter and Colleen Reilly, who regularly engaged in peaceful counseling on public sidewalks around Harrisburg’s two abortion clinics, one of which is Hillcrest Women’s Medical Center. They had been harassed and intimated by clinic staff and the local police since the City enacted the ordinance, which was drafted and pushed by Planned Parenthood. This unconstitutional ordinance purported to expel pro-life speakers from public property and pushed pro-life counselors sometimes 50 feet to more than 70 feet away from the women they are attempting to help.

                                               LC Client Becky Biter Celebrates Hillcrest Closing

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