A trusted pediatric practice that has cared for generations of Nassau County families just announced the closure of one of its locations at the end of the month.

The sudden closure of Optum Woodbury Pediatrics has frustrated hundreds of patients, including Syosset mom Jennifer Stone.

Stone says she has relied on the pediatric practice her entire life. Stone says she grew up using the practice and now her two boys go there, too.

The news of the closure arrived in an email during flu season, leaving families less than a month to find new care options.

"I cried when I read the letter," says Stone.

Optum's message points patients to a new location about 15 minutes away, but many parents aren't ready to leave the doctors they've known for decades.

Some have launched a petition urging the company to reverse the situation.

Similar shutdowns at Optum offices in New Jersey, Connecticut and the Hudson Valley have raised red flags up in Albany.

State Sen. Pete Harckham says seniors in Somers are also scrambling to find new providers after a closure in northern Westchester.

"It's irresponsible and health care is not a commodity," he says. "It's an essential service that people count on. And if they're not going to be better actors, then we need to step in,"

Harckham is drafting legislation to require public notice before medical groups shut down practices.

"We have spoken to the Department of Health about this, and when a hospital wants to close, there are rigorous public engagement requirements before DOH gives approval," he says. "I'm working on legislation right now to require the same for medical groups because there shouldn't be a community blind-sighted."

An Optum spokesperson released the following statement: "We regularly review our services, footprint and staffing levels to ensure they meet the needs of the people we serve, our business and evolving market dynamics. We are providing clear information and support to our patients to ensure uninterrupted care."

Optum Woodbury Pediatrics is set to close on Dec. 21.

Have you been impacted by the closure? If so, Tara Rosenblum wants to hear from you.