Generated

North Star Health Alliance faces community pushback over proposed labor and delivery service closures in Ogdensburg

North Star Health Alliance is seeking state approval to close the labor and delivery unit at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, a move met with significant opposition from local residents and healthcare workers. During a public hearing, over 300 people gathered to argue that the loss of the birthing center would force patients to travel 30 to 50 miles, potentially endangering mothers and infants during emergencies. Interim CEO Andrew Manzer defended the cuts as a financial necessity, noting that the service currently operates at a nearly $3 million annual loss. Chief Operating Officer Jerian Odell highlighted that the organization is navigating a Chapter 11 bankruptcy and must eliminate losses to preserve other essential facilities, such as the Meadowbrook Assisted Living Facility. While many speakers, including surgical nurse Jessica Thornton, argued that rural lives matter as much as urban ones, the New York State Department of Health will review the testimony before making a final decision. The administration announced that Rochester Regional is a potential healthcare partner to help stabilize the network.

Sources