Community Unites to Save Troy's Burdett Birth Center from Closure

TROY, N.Y. — The announcement that the last hospital in Troy planned to shut down its birthing center sent shockwaves through the community, particularly for locals like Starletta Washington, who have deep ties to the facility. “It was devastating,” said Washington, executive director of the local YWCA and a lifelong Troy resident. “Families would face daunting journeys just to safely deliver their babies, either in a vehicle or worse.”

Washington's alarm echoed a growing concern across the U.S., where numerous maternity units have closed since 2010. As hospitals consolidate, smaller facilities often bear the brunt of financial cuts. However, the story in Troy turned out to be different.

A Unifying Cause

When news broke about the planned closure, it galvanized a spectrum of community leaders, including lawmakers from both major parties, midwives, doulas, and mothers. The campaign against the closure saw unexpected allies work hand-in-hand, with even Planned Parenthood joining forces with the local Catholic diocese in their efforts.

“We can't let this happen,” declared Carmella Mantello, Troy's Republican mayor. “It brought everyone together, regardless of political affiliation.” As healthcare issues intensify in political debates leading to upcoming elections, this scenario showcased a rare moment of unity.

In Troy, frustrations boiled over toward corporate hospitals perceived to be prioritizing profit over patient care. This visceral response prompted civic action aimed at safeguarding essential healthcare services for the community.

A Legacy of Care

For more than a century, babies have been delivered at Samaritan Hospital, reflecting the city’s history as an industrial hub. Recently, Burdett Birth Center focused on patient-centered care, promoting normal deliveries while supporting women’s choices. Notably, it boasted lower cesarean rates compared to the state average, with only a quarter of deliveries in this manner, a significant advantage in the fight for maternal health.

Families like that of Lidia Zambrano-Madera, who welcomed both her children at Burdett, highlighted the center’s accessibility, which is ideal for local residents needing immediate care. Zambrano-Madera noted, “I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” emphasizing the personal relationship many had with the facility.

However, Trinity Health, the Michigan-based parent company overseeing the birthing center, argued that the unit was unprofitable and needed to close. The alternative was a longer drive to another Trinity hospital in Albany, up to half an hour away, posing a serious risk, particularly in emergencies.

“You reach a point where consolidating services becomes necessary,” said Steven Hanks, overseeing Trinity’s operations in New York. Meanwhile, local healthcare advocates pushed back, asserting that the hospital had failed to consider the specific needs of the community.

Mobilization Against Corporate Healthcare

The community's outrage over the proposed closure sparked swift mobilization. Activists quickly organized protests and awareness campaigns, gathering signatures and handing out signs declaring “Save Burdett” at public events. Many residents, including those who did not own vehicles, faced insurmountable challenges accessing healthcare if the center closed.

Jessica Hayek, a doula and educator, noted, “The community recognized the importance of Burdett; it’s a vital service.” Complaints about Trinity’s corporate mentality resonated widely, striking a chord across the political spectrum. Even those typically aligned with more conservative views found common ground.

“What used to be a personal service from healthcare professionals has turned into a system that feels detached,” stated Mantello, lamenting the shift toward a corporate atmosphere. The complaints about patient care extended to the local bishop, who called the closure inconsistent with Catholic health ethics.

A Pathway to Resolution

Despite initial denials from Trinity to reconsider, significant pressure from local leaders and state officials culminated in a bipartisan investigation led by New York Attorney General Letitia James. Public hearings in Troy highlighted the personal effects of the closure on families, ultimately pushing these leaders to secure $5 million in state funding to keep the Birth Center open.

“When you have political representatives from both sides working collaboratively, it demonstrates the community’s importance in driving policy,” remarked Assembly member McDonald. The previously fragmented healthcare discourse was now fostering cooperation aimed at addressing critical local needs.

Ultimately, nearly a year after announcing the closure, Trinity reversed its decision, extending the life of the Burdett Birth Center. This victory signals a shifting sentiment toward corporate healthcare systems, which may now face increased scrutiny as communities assert their healthcare needs.

Lois Uttley, a healthcare activist, reflects, “Communities are waking up to broken promises and are becoming increasingly skeptical.” As more hospital systems close or scale down operations, residents are recognizing the importance of local healthcare.

In a fitting closing note, McDonald emphasized the power of unity: “If we take down our swords and put out our arms, maybe we can get something done.”

This article originally appeared on KFF Health News under a Creative Commons License.