Morton Hospital, the closest acute care center for approximately 60,000 Taunton residents, is facing a potential crisis due to the financial struggles of its owner, Steward Health Care. In response, community members, medical professionals, and local officials assembled at a Taunton park on Tuesday, urging the for-profit hospital chain to maintain Morton’s operation.
Mayor Shaunna O’Connell, who was born at Morton Hospital, stressed the hospital’s longstanding presence in the community and its critical role in providing essential healthcare services. Despite Steward’s lack of imminent closure announcements in Massachusetts, concerns remain about the future of the facility if the company fails to meet its objectives of selling or transferring ownership promptly.
Rally organizers advocate for a nonprofit to ultimately take control of Morton Hospital. This week’s rally is part of a series of events spearheaded by advocacy groups like the Massachusetts Nurses Association and 1199 SEIU to raise awareness and garner support.
Lynne Catino, a nurse’s assistant in Morton’s addiction unit since 2001, expressed her deep connection to the hospital community. She emphasized the familiar and supportive environment that makes Morton so valuable to the community.
Tiago Cardoso, another nurse, highlighted the rally’s significance in bringing attention to the cause and holding elected officials accountable. He described the increased stress and reduced resources that hospital staff has experienced in recent years.
Shelley and Jamie Clasby, East Taunton residents who welcomed their daughter at Morton Hospital, expressed their concern about the lack of awareness regarding Steward’s financial difficulties in the neighborhood. They stressed the essentiality of keeping Morton Hospital open for the community.
If Morton Hospital were to close, the nearest alternative for Taunton residents would be Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, approximately 12 miles away. Additional rallies are scheduled to take place in various Massachusetts cities throughout the week to advocate for Morton Hospital’s preservation.
