Judge approves sale of 5 Massachusetts hospitals by Steward Health Care

A Texas judge approved the sale of five hospitals in Massachusetts owned by Steward Health Care during a bankruptcy hearing on Wednesday. This decision comes after multiple postponements of the hearing, which had cost the state millions to keep the hospitals operational. The sold facilities include St. Anne's Hospital, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center, Morton Hospital, and Holy Family Hospital's locations. Steward had previously closed two other hospitals, Carney Hospital and Nashoba Valley Medical Center. The Archdiocese of Boston expressed concerns regarding the sale, particularly about the potential removal of Catholic identity symbols by the new owners if they do not intend to operate as Catholic health care facilities. Steward filed for bankruptcy reorganization in May and has been exploring the sale of numerous hospitals across the country amid ongoing investigations by federal prosecutors in Boston for alleged fraud and violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. The Massachusetts Nurses Association, representing over 2,800 registered nurses at the affected hospitals, welcomed the sale as a positive development for the communities and workforce. They have already begun discussions with the new operators to ensure a smooth transition. Tim Foley from 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East also highlighted the importance of protecting patient safety and workers' rights during this transition. As Steward exits Massachusetts, the focus shifts to stabilizing the hospitals and their vital workforces, with new investments needed to support the ongoing healthcare needs of the communities served by these facilities.