Today, a group of women, mothers, and children gathered at the entrance of Parkview Regional Medical Center to demand answers regarding the recent closure of three labor and delivery units within a 13-month time frame.
Despite several attempts through email, phone calls, and social media, the community has received no response from Parkview. As a community-owned, multi-billion dollar healthcare system, it is concerning that we are not receiving the transparency and accountability we deserve and demand.
Many healthcare providers, medical staff, and physicians feel frustrated and voiceless, fearing retaliation. Even community leaders are careful about what and how they can say things.
Parkview's blanket statement that there are no OBs or that obstetrics is being combined into fewer hospitals is insufficient and unacceptable. It is a complete lie, and the public knows it. We need specific answers to our questions.
Parkview's recent investment in a residency program for Labor and Delivery, while spending $14 million to recruit new residents, has caused the current midwives at PRMC to be moved to Randillia. While this may seem like a well-thought-out plan, it is once again putting too many providers in one location to be able to provide continuity of care.
Much of this information is public knowledge, and only those who are not at risk of losing their jobs can speak out. It is concerning that a healthcare company would put its community at risk for profit.
Too much power and money in the wrong hands will lead to disaster. It is time that Parkview listens to the community's concerns and gives us answers.
We want our midwives who have run Dekalb Family Birthing Center for over a decade to remain at Dekalb. We want our birth rights respected. We deserve better than this Parkview! Are you listening?
Dekalb County and surrounding counties, you have to start talking and making some noise!!! Please share the petition, please start attending public meetings, our voices matter!!