AYER – At a rally at Ayre Town Hall on Tuesday morning, speakers tried to send a message to Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, urging her to intervene to save Nashoba Valley Medical Center.
of Hospital closures The announcement came Friday, months after owner Steward Health Care filed for bankruptcy.
“Shame on you stewards. [Steward Health CEO] Ralph de la Torre“It’s shameful that our health care system puts profits over people,” said Councilwoman Margaret Scarsdale, D-Pepperell.
Massachusetts hospital closes
With no buyers, Nashoba Hospital will be one of two Massachusetts hospitals to close by Aug. 31. Kearney Hospital The Dorchester store will also be closing.
The closure of Nashoba Valley Medical Center will result in 490 employees losing their jobs.
“I don’t think I had any words. I cried for a few hours because I thought everything was ready,” nurse Monica Gill told WBZ-TV.
That sadness turned to frustration Tuesday, when the rally in Ayr was joined by several nurses, medical professionals and state and local leaders.
What will happen to Nashoba Valley patients?
Medical experts said the closures could mean the difference between life and death.
“There’s nothing here,” Gill said.
“Our communities are forced to travel long distances for treatment. In emergency situations, every minute counts. Constituents have told me stories of patients whose lives were saved because they received timely treatment at Nashoba Valley Hospital,” added Rep. Dan Sena.
Healy is asked to intervene.
Speakers at the rally said the solution should be in Healey’s hands: Massachusetts could declare a state of emergency and petition the court for powers, they said.
Hospital advocates also believe Gov. Healey could implement the 120-day notice law required before a medical facility can close, giving Nashoba Valley Medical Center and its employees more time.
“Maura Healy, please do your part and keep your promise,” emergency room nurse Jennifer Wattson said.
“Governor Healey, what are you doing to keep Nashoba Valley Medical Center open?” Sen. Jamie Eldridge, R-Marlboro, said at Tuesday’s rally, drawing cheers from the audience.
Healy suggested his hands may be tied on the matter, saying he would remain focused on keeping Steward’s other hospitals running and accepting patients.
