In response to the potential financial crisis facing Steward Health Care in Massachusetts, Governor Maura Healey has urged the transfer of the state’s hospitals to new operators as soon as possible. Healey accused Steward CEO Ralph de la Torre of withholding vital financial information and demanded that the system comply with state monitoring, disclose financial information, adequately staff and supply its facilities, and facilitate a smooth transition to new operators for its seven Massachusetts hospitals.
Healey’s letter, made public by her office, set a deadline of Friday for Steward to submit its financial information as required by law. Failure to do so could lead to measures such as freezing admissions, closing beds, and transferring patients to other hospitals. The governor also involved the Massachusetts attorney general and acting U.S. attorney for Massachusetts in the matter.
The potential consequences come as health officials prepare for possible hospital closures if Steward Health Care continues to face financial struggles. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren has also criticized the system for prioritizing profits over patients and concealing critical financial information.
It is noteworthy that Steward Health Care, a for-profit health care system, has faced financial challenges in recent years, prompting scrutiny from state officials and health care advocates.
(Suggested headline: “Massachusetts Governor Urges Transfer of Steward Health Care Hospitals Amid Financial Struggles”)
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