Recently, there have been discussions about the lack of a bid for new ownership of Holy Family Hospital in Haverhill. Filaine Deronnette, 1199SEIU Vice President At-Large, released the following statement in response:

“The healthcare workers of 1199SEIU are angered by the reported breakdown in negotiations to transfer both campuses of Holy Family Hospital to a new owner. The fact that Apollo, Medical Properties Trust (MPT) and Steward Health Care would continue this sick game of financial brinksmanship, in an effort to squeeze every last dollar from hospitals that Steward and its financial backers have already wrung dry, is unconscionable. Their inability to put patients first is already costing us Carney Hospital and Nashoba Valley Medical Center, and now threatens Holy Family Hospital in Haverhill.  It is past time for Apollo, MPT, and Steward to stop recklessly gambling with the lives and safety of residents.  They need to agree on a purchase price for Holy Family Methuen and Haverhill that is realistic for the only viable purchaser to step forward and place a bid that will deliver continuity of care for Merrimack Valley.   

The Massachusetts healthcare system is on the brink of collapse and action is needed now. We call upon the Healey administration and the state legislature to do what is necessary for patients, caregivers, and the communities they serve by taking action to ensure the transfer of all six hospitals, including Holy Family Hospital in Haverhill, to new ownership. Inaction puts lives at risk and Massachusetts residents deserve better.”