(BOSTON–2/5/2024) Today, Senator Michael D. Brady (D-Brockton) released a statement on Steward Health Care.
“I commend Secretary Walsh and the Healey-Driscoll administration for their proactive approach in addressing the challenges facing Steward Health Care,” said Senator Michael D. Brady (D-Brockton). “The ongoing monitoring efforts by the Department of Public Health are crucial in ensuring the safety and quality of care for our constituents. It is imperative that we continue to prioritize contingency planning and capacity analysis to meet the healthcare needs of our residents statewide. I stand ready to support these collaborative efforts aimed at prioritizing the well-being of Massachusetts residents and ensuring access to high-quality healthcare services.”
The Department of Public Health (DPH) has processes in place to maintain quality and safety. As of Jan. 31, DPH surveyors are conducting daily on-site monitoring visits at Good Samaritan Medical Center, St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, and Holy Family Hospital (the Methuen and Haverhill campuses). A monitoring visit includes a review of hospital staffing, daily patient census, and supplies and services provided. In addition, DPH is investigating any concerns related to all Steward facilities.
In addition to evaluating information on the care that Steward facilities are providing (including type, quality, and volume), planning and capacity analysis by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) and DPH involves working with other Massachusetts health care providers to determine their capacity for patients and staff. This includes geographic information (i.e., where patients and staff are coming from) for a comprehensive understanding of regional needs. The Healey-Driscoll administration is not only looking at data; as future prospects become clearer for different facilities, they will also seek community input to ensure regional needs are met.
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