In a major development for Massachusetts' healthcare system, Governor Maura Healey announced on Friday that the state will exercise its power of eminent domain to take control of St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Brighton. Additionally, the administration has secured deals to save four of Steward Health Care's hospitals from closure.

During a news conference, Governor Healey declared that this move would effectively end Steward Health Care's operations in Massachusetts. She emphasized that the state's intervention was crucial in protecting access to healthcare for local communities and preserving the jobs of thousands of dedicated employees.

While agreements "in principle" have been reached for the transfer of ownership for Saint Anne's Hospital in Fall River, Good Samaritan Medical Center in Brockton, Morton Hospital in Taunton, and Holy Family hospitals in Haverhill and Methuen, Governor Healey expressed concerns about the private equity firms managing Steward's bankruptcy process not acting in the best interests of Massachusetts residents regarding St. Elizabeth's.

To address this, the governor stated, "Enough is enough." The administration aims to facilitate a transition to a new owner and keep St. Elizabeth's Medical Center operational by utilizing eminent domain, which empowers the government to acquire private property for public use.

Pending approval, Lawrence General Hospital is set to assume operations at the Holy Family hospitals, while Rhode Island-based Lifespan would take over Morton and Saint Anne's. Boston Medical Center would assume control of Good Samaritan and St. Elizabeth's once the state's eminent domain process is complete.

When contacted, Steward did not immediately comment on the state's announcement. Governor Healey revealed that her administration is working with lawmakers to develop a fiscally responsible financing plan, including cash advances, capital support, and maximizing federal assistance, for the smooth transfer of hospital ownership.

Calling it a "win for Massachusetts," Governor Healey expressed relief at removing a substandard operator in Steward Health Care. However, it is important to note that this development does not impact the previously announced closures of Carney Hospital in Dorchester and Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer, as Steward received no qualifying bids for these hospitals.

State and local health officials have reassured Carney Hospital employees that there are no plans to acquire the facility using eminent domain. The focus now is on assisting workers in finding new employment opportunities and ensuring a safe transition of patient care to alternative hospitals.

The eighth hospital in Massachusetts owned by Steward, Norwood Hospital, has remained closed since heavy rain flooded the facility in June 2020.

Governor Healey pledged to continue actively collaborating with affected communities to mitigate the impact of these closures and support healthcare professionals during this challenging time.

Overall, the state's decision to seize control of St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and salvage several hospitals shines a ray of hope for the healthcare landscape in Massachusetts, ensuring continued access to care and preserving vital jobs in the sector.