Norwood Hospital Task Force Urges the State Senate to Help 'Finish the Job'

The
Norwood Hospital Task Force (NHTF) is thanking the Massachusetts House
of Representatives for advancing legislation that would help preserve
the future of Norwood Hospital and is encouraging residents to continue
advocating for the bill as it moves to the Senate.

On Wednesday of last week, the House approved Bill H.5553
(amended from the previous H.5192) — legislation that would authorize
the state to acquire the Norwood Hospital property through eminent
domain for the purpose of ensuring continued access to health care for
the public.

The legislation would authorize the Division
of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, subject to appropriation,
to acquire the property and transfer it to the Department of Public
Health, which could then convey it to a qualified nonprofit hospital
operator.

The Task Force extends its sincere appreciation to State Rep. John Rogers for his leadership and commitment to restoring full-service hospital care to the Norwood community.

"Rep. Rogers has been a staunch advocate for
our residents and for the future of health care in Norwood," said NHTF
member Jack McCarthy, retired Executive Director of the Massachusetts
School Building Authority (MSBA). "Today's House vote represents
meaningful progress. We are grateful for Rep. Roger's hard work, the
support of his fellow House members, and the leadership shown by House
Speaker Rep. Ronald J. Marianoof. However, our work is not finished."

The legislation will now be considered by the Massachusetts Senate.

The Task Force is urging residents,
businesses and community members throughout the region to continue
making their voices heard by contacting their state senators and
expressing support for the legislation.

Residents can take action by visiting the Norwood Hospital Task Force website, where they can send a letter to their state senator, sign the petition supporting the effort, and learn more about the ongoing campaign to restore hospital services.

The House vote comes just a week and a half after the Norwood Hospital Task Force released its interim report
detailing the ongoing public health, emergency response and regional
health care impacts resulting from the closure of Norwood Hospital.

"The continued closure of Norwood Hospital
has affected families, patients and first responders across the region,"
said Norwood General Manager Tony Mazzucco. "We encourage everyone who
supports restoring local hospital care to take a few moments to contact
their state senator and Senate President Karen E. Spilka. All of our affected communities must work together to help finish the job."

To follow the Finish Norwood Hospital campaign, visit the campaign website or the campaign’s socials: Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.