Massachusetts Reaches Agreements for Hospital Transitions

Governor Maura Healey's administration has reached preliminary agreements to keep five Steward Health Care hospitals in Massachusetts open by transitioning them to new operators. St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Brighton will be taken over by the state through eminent domain, with Boston Medical Center handling its operations. Lawrence General Hospital will manage both campuses of Holy Family Hospital in Methuen and Haverhill, Lifespan Health Systems will take over Morton and Saint Anne's Hospitals, and Good Samaritan Medical Center will also be operated by Boston Medical Center. This plan aims to protect healthcare access and jobs while involving a financing strategy that includes cash advances, capital support, and maximizing federal matches. Carney and Nashoba Valley hospitals will still close due to a lack of qualified bids. Healey highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Legislature to ensure a responsible transition.