The Ontario Health Alliance on Thursday launched its health care public hearings in Wallaceburg.

28 inhabitants have enrolled to undertake presentations at the Wallaceburg, all of who will represent groups from across the province, following Strathroy, Petrolia and Leamington.

"People are very concerned about the future of their hospitals in small communities and their health-care services”, said Natalie Mehra, Director of the coalition, a network of more than 400 community organizations.

The Ontario Health Coalition revealed that hospital financial support has not been able to maintain pace with inflation. Hospitals have been urged to close emergency department to reduce the deficit.

The Ontario Health coalition's hearings will begin at the Oaks Inn in Wallaceburg at 3 p. m.

11 hearings are planned over Ontario, which will be closing in New Liskeard on March 27.

The plan is to make a report in April, to be put forward to the regional Government and Ontario Health Minister Deb Matthews.

The Ontario Health Coalition will involve associates, including doctors and nurses, from the Liberal, NDP and Conservative parties.