~ During the latest Council meeting, a resolution was passed calling for the Boston Public Health Commission to declare a public health emergency in response to the planned closure of Carney Hospital. The hospital, which has been serving the community since 1863, is owned by Steward Health Care System, one of the largest private for-profit healthcare networks in the country.

Steward recently revealed in its bankruptcy court filings that it intends to close Carney Hospital by August 31, 2024. This decision was made due to a lack of qualified bids for the hospital. However, this closure date is three months earlier than the state-mandated 120-day notice for hospital closures. This leaves patients and staff with little time to prepare and transfer their care.

The Council's resolution states that Steward's request to close Carney Hospital so quickly is "unconscionable" and will have devastating effects on Boston residents who rely on the hospital for care. The hospital serves a large and diverse patient population in the city, including many residents of color living in Dorchester and other areas, as well as immigrant patients. It also has strong ties to South Boston residents who have either visited or worked there.

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The closure of Carney Hospital could have significant consequences for the health and well-being of these communities. This includes a large population from communities of color and economically disadvantaged residents who are disproportionately impacted by service closures. It could also lead to delays in access to care for all communities in Greater Boston as other facilities will be forced to absorb this patient population.

In addition, the closure would result in 753 job losses at Carney Hospital. The Council is urging both the City of Boston and State Government to take action in response to this situation. They are calling on them to declare a public health emergency and ensure that Steward is following all state and local laws regarding hospital closures.

Furthermore, they are urging both entities to be prepared to take action if there are no bidders for Carney Hospital. This includes seizing the property by eminent domain and continuing to operate the facility until a permanent operator is found. The Council believes that this is necessary to preserve the operations of the hospital and ensure that the community continues to have access to vital healthcare services.

The closure of Carney Hospital would be a significant loss for the city of Boston and its residents. The Council is taking a stand to protect the health and well-being of its citizens and is calling on all relevant parties to do the same. It remains to be seen what actions will be taken in response to this resolution, but it is clear that the Council is committed to fighting for the continued operation of Carney Hospital.

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