Massachusetts lawmakers are deeply concerned about the financial issues faced by Steward Health Care, which could lead to the closure of several hospitals that the company operates in the state. Steward Health Care, based in Dallas and reportedly owing $50 million in unpaid rent, operates several hospitals in Massachusetts. There are plans to sell four hospitals including the Norwood facility that has been closed since June 2020 due to flooding, as well as the Nashoba Valley Medical Center, St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, and Holy Family Hospital. The lack of a plan from Steward has raised concerns among policymakers, who are seeking to protect patient care, jobs, and the stability of the healthcare system in Massachusetts.
Amid the surge in COVID cases and increased demand for healthcare services, the potential closure of hospitals operated by Steward Health Care has taken lawmakers by surprise. Additionally, Steward’s claim that they are not being reimbursed adequately for the care they provide to Medicare and Medicaid patients is causing further alarm. With a focus on ensuring that patients have access to care, and jobs and the healthcare system remain stable, Massachusetts lawmakers are actively engaging with Steward Health Care to address the potential challenges and consequences of hospital closures. Steward Health Care employs over 16,000 healthcare workers in the state, making it essential to protect both the workforce and patient care.
In response to the financial challenges faced by Steward Health Care and the potential closure of hospitals in Massachusetts, state lawmakers have intervened to ensure the protection of patient care, jobs, and the stability of the healthcare system. There is a growing concern about the lack of a concrete plan from Steward regarding the future of the hospitals they operate and the significant impact it could have on the local healthcare landscape. With a focus on navigating the surge in COVID cases and addressing the reimbursement issues faced by Steward, policymakers are committed to safeguarding patient access to care and the stability of the healthcare workforce in Massachusetts. This occasion has drawn urgency from lawmakers to work closely with Steward Health Care to mitigate the detrimental effects of potential hospital closures and ensure the protection of patients and healthcare workers in the state.
