A Fulton hospital slated for major downsizing in June 2008 announced a tentative agreement on Wednesday that could keep its emergency room doors open.

A.L. Lee Memorial is pursuing an affiliation with Oswego Health.

The state Commission on Health Care Facilities in the 21st Century, also known as the Berger Commission, recommended eliminating 67 inpatient beds and converting to outpatient services only, which would essentially eliminate emergency care at Lee Memorial.

Despite an alternative proposal from Lee Memorial that the state Department of Health rejected in November, officials from both hospitals indicated they were cautiously optimistic in a joint statement.

“This discussion and potential affiliation may offer outcomes that continue to meet the health care needs of the community and lessen the negative impacts of the Berger Commission's mandates,” Lee Memorial board Chairman Bill Clark said in a press release.

Officials would not release further information on Wednesday due to a confidentiality agreement in effect until the details for the affiliation are accepted by both sides.

Details on how the affiliation plan would work were not released.

“The goal is to create a dynamic health care system in the community,” Oswego Health board Chairperson Nancy Bellow said in a press release. “By pursuing an affiliation we may be able to maintain health care jobs and keep quality health care professionals in Oswego County.”