Massachusetts Demands Steward’s Urgent Financial Records Submission
TL/DR –
Steward Health Care, a company that operates 10 hospitals in Massachusetts, has expressed interest in “orderly departure” from the state. The Dallas-based company currently owes $50 million in unpaid rent and reportedly employs over 15,000 healthcare workers in the state. Governor Maura Healey has asked the company to provide a concrete plan for its exit, ensuring the continuity of medical care in its communities, and the protection of patients and access to care.
Steward Health Care Plans to Exit Massachusetts
Steward Health Care, the Dallas-based healthcare provider operating ten hospitals in Massachusetts, is considering a complete departure from the state. In a recent letter to Gov. Maura Healey, executive VP Dr. Michael Callum confirmed the company’s interest in an orderly exit, pledging to ensure continuous quality medical care during the transition.
The company, which had earlier shown interest in selling its assets in the state, handed over its financial records to Massachusetts state authorities on the same day the letter was shared with NewsCenter 5. Steward claims to have provided extensive documentation, including financials from 2017 to 2022, despite the governor’s claims of their persistent non-compliance.
Steward Health Care, reportedly owing $50 million in unpaid rent, operates several hospitals in Massachusetts, including Carney Hospital, Good Samaritan Medical Center, Holy Family, Morton Hospital, Nashoba Valley Medical Center, New England Sinai Hospital, Norwood Hospital, Saint Anne’s Hospital, and St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center.
Earlier, Steward had assured employees of adequate funds to keep all hospitals operational temporarily while seeking potential buyers for some facilities. Even so, state officials have expressed concerns about potential closures and have asked Steward for a concrete plan.
Employing over 15,000 healthcare professionals in Massachusetts, Steward has stated that it is not intending to abandon its communities or employees and is open to increased oversight from the Department of Public Health. The company is eager to advance its exit strategy discussions with the state administration.
In a footnote, Steward criticized Massachusetts’ healthcare policy favoring larger, costlier hospital systems. Healey expressed her disappointment at the CEO and management team for allegedly stripping assets from community hospitals serving low-income patients. She stressed the need for a smooth transition as Steward departs from Massachusetts and protection of patient care.
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