Why the Memorial Hospital Birthing Center May Close
In late February, Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, located in Pawtucket, announced plans to shut down its birthing center due to ongoing financial strain. The closure, part of a larger restructuring effort by parent company Care New England, would also result in nurse layoffs and the transfer of obstetric services to other hospitals.
Dennis D. Keefe, CEO of Care New England, cited challenges tied to the Affordable Care Act and a statewide bed surplus of over 200 as reasons for the move. “Hospitals must evolve to be more efficient and responsive to community needs,” he stated.
Midwives and the Community Speak Out
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) across Rhode Island have spoken out strongly against the closure, arguing that it would significantly limit birthing options for women in the community. The hospital’s midwife-led unit is especially valued for its patient-centered approach and strong relationships with families in the area.
Michelle Palmer, CNM, a member of RI Home Birth and Family Health, which operates out of Memorial, raised concerns on Rhode Island Public Radio. She questioned whether proposed replacement hospitals could accommodate birthing patients’ unique clinical and emotional needs.
What Happens Next for Obstetric Care in Rhode Island?
Memorial Hospital submitted a Reverse Certificate of Need Application to the Rhode Island Department of Health on March 2. While a decision is pending, the Department has ordered that current services, including labor and delivery, remain in place until the application is formally reviewed and resolved.
Hospital president Dr. Michael Dacey has proposed consolidating services to other Care New England hospitals. However, midwives and patients remain concerned about the potential burden on those facilities and the disruption of trusted care relationships.
Impact on Women’s Healthcare Access
The birthing center’s closure would disproportionately affect women who prefer midwifery care or lack transportation to facilities farther away. Here’s a comparison of access before and after the potential closure:
| Factor | Before Closure | After Closure |
|---|---|---|
| Local Midwife-Led Birth Center | Available in Pawtucket | Unavailable |
| Travel Distance for Some Families | < 10 miles | Up to 25 miles |
| Continuity of Care | Consistent midwife relationships | Disrupted for many patients |
What Aspiring Midwives Should Know
Rhode Island is one of several states debating midwifery access and birth equity. For those considering a career as a Certified Nurse Midwife in the state, it’s crucial to understand the changing landscape of practice environments and public health policy.
To learn more about licensing and educational requirements, visit our Rhode Island CNM Licensing Guide.
Update: Final Decision on Closure
As of 2024, Memorial Hospital’s birthing center has been permanently closed. The Rhode Island Department of Health approved the transition, and services were redirected to Kent Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital. Midwives continue to advocate for expanded birthing options through the Rhode Island Birth Network and other community-based care models.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult licensed medical professionals or the Rhode Island Department of Health for clinical decisions.