Scripps Mercy Chula Vista’s decision to close its maternity ward has sparked protests from South Bay Health care workers and supporters. The department will be consolidated with Scripps Mercy in Hillcrest, a move that critics argue will negatively impact mothers and babies, particularly those from low-income communities who may have difficulty traveling the distance to Hillcrest.
Dr. Latisa Carson, an OB/GYN at Scripps Mercy Chula Vista, highlighted the challenges many patients face due to limited transportation options in the South Bay area. The consolidation will result in the elimination of over 130 positions, but Scripps has committed to finding alternative roles for affected employees.
Despite the consolidation, Scripps emphasizes that emergency obstetrics services will still be available in Chula Vista. However, concerns have been raised about the ability of ER physicians to handle obstetrical emergencies, as they may not have specialized training in this area.
Dr. Carson and Dr. Kofi Sefa-Boakye have called for a reevaluation of Scripps’ decision, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the well-being of patients. The consolidation process is expected to be completed by early summer, following a mandatory 90-day notice-and-comment period.
In a statement to CBS 8, Scripps assured that safe and high-quality obstetrics services will be maintained throughout the consolidation process. The hospital is working on operational details to ensure proper staffing and seamless handoffs for labor and delivery services. Transparency and compliance with regulatory requirements are also key priorities for Scripps during this transition.
As the community continues to voice concerns over the closure, it is essential for healthcare professionals like Dr. Carson to advocate for the needs of their patients. The ongoing discussions and actions surrounding this consolidation serve as a reminder of the importance of accessible and quality healthcare services for all individuals.
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