SPRINGFIELD -- The Hospital Authority of Effingham County learned during its meeting Tuesday night that some of its residents aren't willing to swallow the bitter pill that it wants them to take. Dozens of Effingham Medical Partners LLC patients voiced support for Dr. Joseph Ratchford, who was recently notified that he is expected to soon vacate the building that has housed his practice for 27 years. The meeting room, Effingham Hospital's Kieffer Hall, was packed with nearly 70 supporters and about 20 more stood in a nearby hallway.