Conclusions of Geisinger gas drilling study likely years away

(Albany, NY) -- A health study spearheaded by a central Pennsylvania health company is likely years away from conclusions about whether the shale gas-drilling technology is safe.  

The study conducted by Geisinger Health System in Danville, Montour County is cited by leading environmentalist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as pivotal in helping persuade New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to hold off on plans for a limited fracking pilot program.

Andy Deubler, an executive vice president at Geisinger Health System, says the study is still in early planning stages with only a fraction of its necessary funding. He says it's just one piece of a larger body of independent research just getting under way and seeking funding.

Preliminary results are expected within a year.

Leaders of an anti-fracking coalition in New York state have said Cuomo should wait for results of the Geisinger study. They also want a more extensive, New York-specific review.

For more on natural gas drilling in the commonwealth, visit StateImpact Pennsylvania.