FridayOL

Samaritan Health Services is facing tough decisions that could significantly impact expectant families in Linn and Lincoln Counties. The healthcare provider is currently considering closing its maternity units at both the Lebanon and Lincoln City hospitals, sparking concerns about access to essential birthing services.

What's Happening? The potential closures are being evaluated due to a range of factors, including declining birth rates and financial pressures. While Samaritan hasn't yet made a final decision, the possibility has already generated considerable anxiety among local residents.

Impact on Linn County: If the Lebanon maternity unit closes, Linn County, home to approximately 132,000 people, would be left with only one option: Samaritan’s Albany hospital. This facility is roughly 14 miles away from Lebanon, a distance that can easily translate to a 30-minute or longer drive, especially during peak traffic times. For women in labour, this added travel time could be a critical concern.

“The thought of having to drive that far during labour is incredibly stressful,” shared Sarah Miller, a Lebanon resident and mother of two. “It’s not just the distance; it’s the unpredictable nature of childbirth. You never know when you’ll need to go to the hospital.”

Lincoln City Concerns: The situation in Lincoln City is equally concerning. Closing the maternity unit there would eliminate a vital local resource for families on the coast. Residents would face longer journeys to reach the nearest hospital with birthing services.

Samaritan's Perspective: Samaritan Health Services acknowledges the potential impact of these decisions and states they are committed to providing the best possible care while facing financial realities. They are exploring alternatives and engaging with the community to understand concerns and explore potential solutions.

“We understand the importance of accessible maternity care and are working diligently to evaluate all options,” said a spokesperson for Samaritan Health Services. “Our priority is to ensure the long-term sustainability of our healthcare services while meeting the needs of the communities we serve.”

Community Response: Local community members and advocacy groups are actively voicing their concerns and urging Samaritan Health Services to reconsider the potential closures. Petitions are circulating, and meetings are being organized to discuss the issue and explore alternatives, such as community fundraising or partnerships with other healthcare providers.

Looking Ahead: The decisions surrounding these potential closures are far from final. Samaritan Health Services is expected to announce its plans in the coming weeks. The community remains hopeful that a solution can be found that preserves access to vital maternity services for families in Linn and Lincoln Counties.