The decision is reflective of financial difficulties facing many community hospitals. Other factors influencing the decision include patient expectations and financial pressures on solo practitioners specializing in obstetrics, such as high insurance costs and the demands of being on-call around the clock.
The Eastern Connecticut Health Network, Rockville’s parent health system, notified state public health officials of the closing earlier in early October. The plans remained out of the public light until recently due to a change in state law that eliminated the need for a public hearing before state healthcare regulators.
The service reduction is raising questions and concerns among community leaders and hospital employees about the hospital’s financial health and commitment to the community.
ECHN officials said there are no plans for any additional cuts in hospital programs or services. Rockville official said there is no intention of closing the hospital, according to the report.
Read the FoxCT report on Rockville General Hospital.
Read about other hospital budget cuts:
–10 Hospitals and Health Systems That Recently Announced Job Cuts
–Rally at Harlem Hospital Protests Budget Cuts, Restructuring Efforts
