Nurses and unions warn of regional strain if Steward hospitals close; urge transition to nonprofit ownership

Nursing and union leaders at the press conference urged state action to preserve jobs and local care as the Steward bankruptcy plays out.

Julie Pinkham of the Massachusetts Nurses Association said nurses and other caregivers have continued to provide care throughout the uncertainty and called for patient, workforce and community voices to be included in decisions about the hospitals' future. "The potential loss of any of these facilities would have devastating consequences for 100 of thousands of residents," she said, and urged a transition to stable, nonprofit ownership where possible.

Tim Foley, executive vice president of 1199 SEIU, said the union represents thousands of caregivers at Steward facilities and set out three priorities: protect access to community health services, protect jobs, and support the communities the hospitals serve. "We remain committed to protecting care in our communities, and we stand prepared to work with all stakeholders to ensure a successful transition of these hospitals to new ownership," Foley said.

Union leaders asked the administration and legislators to ensure workers' pay and jobs are protected during restructuring and to include labor and community representation in planning. Officials thanked caregivers for continuing to provide care while state agencies monitor facility conditions and manage contingency planning.