PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Two birthing centers in rural Oregon are not closing months after Samaritan Health Services considered shutting down the facilities in Lincoln City and Lebanon.
The health system, which has five hospitals, said it did more than 70 feedback sessions and discussions with clinicians, staff and leaders.
The organization promises to try alternatives to keep those birthing centers open, meaning deliveries will still continue at all five hospitals.
“The feedback we received was clear – our teams want to sustain essential services close to home, while finding new ways to collaborate, reduce reliance on temporary providers, and strengthen financial sustainability. The modified proposals represent this shared vision,” said Samaritan President and CEO Marty Cahill in a statement.
The Oregon Nurses Association held rallies over the issue, calling the hospital system’s reversal a victory for its entire community, especially the patients.
“From the beginning, nurses and families made it clear these birthplaces are irreplaceable and must be saved. Generations of families got their start here, and generations fought together to make sure future families have access to safe, local healthcare,” ONA said in a statement. “Keeping our birth centers and emergency surgery services open is lifesaving for moms, babies and local families.”
Last week, it was announced that Providence Seaside Hospital will no longer offer labor and delivery services, starting on October 4. After that, the nearest facility for impacted patients will be about 30 minutes away, in Astoria.
Danny Peterson
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