Newport Hospital Birthing Center Remains Open Amid Fiscal Review

Brown University Health announced that the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center at Newport Hospital will remain open during the next fiscal year, following significant community advocacy and political support. Despite the reprieve, the health system emphasized that the center's long-term future will be assessed over the coming year through a task force reviewing labor and delivery services, including quality, safety, finances, and community impact. The decision also included keeping open Gateway Healthcare and Samuels Sinclair Dental Center, other facilities initially considered for closure due to financial pressures. Local officials, including Gov. Dan McKee and members of the Aquidneck Island House delegation, praised the decision, citing extensive community efforts such as petitions and rallies. While the birthing center is not currently scheduled for closure, challenges like recruiting OB/GYNs and maintaining patient volume remain critical factors for its sustainability. Community events, such as the planned Moms Over Margins Rally, continued as a platform to support the center and broader healthcare access concerns in Newport.