Print A group of doctors and nurses gathered to protest Palomar Health’s decision to pursue a controversial new doctor contract for hospital-based physicians and other key medical staff Wednesday. But, while many passing motorists honked their support, the demonstration, and others like it that have occurred in recent weeks, did not cause Palomar leadership to back down. Officials confirmed in statements received Wednesday evening that the final moment to commit to working with Emergent Medical Associates and its subsidiary Benchmark Hospitalists & Intensivists has passed. Those who have not signed contracts or signaled their intent to do so will be replaced with new hires.