Framingham community voices concerns at Department of Public Health hearing on hospital services

The Framingham City Board of Health meeting on April 8, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the potential reduction of maternity care services at MetroWest Medical Center. As the hospital faces challenges in maintaining adequate levels of care, there is growing anxiety within the community about the implications for local mothers and newborns.

Currently, MetroWest Medical Center is considering scaling back its maternity services to the most basic level of care. This decision stems from a reported lack of resources to support higher levels of care, particularly for infants requiring specialized treatment, such as antibiotics or respiratory assistance. If a newborn faces health issues, the hospital would need to transport the baby to another facility equipped to handle such cases, raising concerns about the separation of mothers from their infants during emergencies.

In response to these proposed cuts, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is holding a public hearing tomorrow at 6 PM, where community members are encouraged to voice their concerns. Dr. Alicia Valente, a board member, plans to address the medical disparities and potential health risks that could arise from reduced services. The mayor and local legislators are also expected to participate, indicating the seriousness of the issue.

The board discussed the current delivery statistics, noting that approximately 505 babies are born at the hospital each year, with a small percentage requiring additional care. The potential reduction in services has sparked fears that it could lead to broader healthcare access issues in Framingham, particularly if other facilities, such as cancer centers, also face closures.

Community members are urged to attend the hearing to express their views on the matter, as the outcome could significantly impact maternal and infant health in the area. The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining adequate healthcare services to support the well-being of families in Framingham.