Report: Lack of transparency, healthcare quality among hospital consolidation concerns
A new report released Tuesday cites numerous community concerns over the acquisition of Crestwood Medical Center by Huntsville Hospital. The report was created by North Alabama residents with support from United Women of Color and the North Alabama Area Labor Council using feedback from a community listening session held earlier this month and an online survey. The creators of the report will hold a virtual press conference Tuesday afternoon.
Participants raised consistent concerns about:
- Workforce shortages, pay, and working conditions
- Healthcare Prices
- Healthcare Quality
- Lack of Transparency
- Lack of clear, forward-looking commitments to the community from healthcare leadership
“When a single system expands its control over regional healthcare, transparency is not optional. The community deserves clear, written commitments on staffing, pricing, and patient care before this transaction closes, not general assurances after the fact,” said UWOC President Angela Curry.
The report lists 7 recommendations to clarify “expectations for transparency, accountability, and system performance.” Among the recommendations are increased community engagement, pay equity, and addressing rural access to healthcare.
“We already know that Huntsville Hospital pays staff less and offers weaker benefits than Crestwood. This shift could have huge impacts on healthcare in the region. Working people deserve a say in this process.” NAALC president Jacob Morrison said.
The creators of the report and other community members will highlight the report and answer questions at a virtual press conference on Tuesday, March 31 at 6 p.m. The livestream link is available here. Participants will be available for interviews during and after.
“People have questions. People are worried. The people of North Alabama just don’t know enough about this deal to feel comfortable. I would hope Huntsville Hospital leadership and city council can address our concerns,” Huntsville resident Forrest Satterfield said.