Saint Alphonsus Exploring Short Extension to Baker City Birthing Center
By Joe Hathaway on Monday, July 17th, 2023 in Featured Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY — St. Alphonsus Hospital System says it is exploring options to possibly extend services at its Baker City hospital birthing center for a short time.
In a press release, the hospital says it is working with Senators Wyden and Merkley and other leaders to find ways to ease the transition before the center’s closure.
St. Alphonsus announced in June that it will be closing its birthing center in Baker City on July 31st, citing staffing and safety issues. The announcement has received intense public backlash from the local community and elected officials.
Senators Wyden and Merkley wrote a letter to the hospital, asking for it to extend services for at least six months to explore alternative solutions.St. Alphonsus goes on to say in the statement that “In the unfortunate event viable solutions do not materialize, we are committed to our value of safety and will be prepared for a safe and informed transition on July 31st.”
