BRATTLEBORO-Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (BMH) representatives say it has reaffirmed its commitment to providing high-quality local maternity care while addressing the financial and workforce challenges that are affecting rural healthcare systems across the country.
“Obstetric care supports the health and well-being of families and strengthens the future of our communities,” Dr. Elizabeth McLarney, acting co-CEO of BMH, said in a news release. “Our goal is to ensure that local families continue to have access to compassionate, high-quality care throughout pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period.”
Like many rural hospitals nationwide, BMH says, it is facing significant financial pressures related to obstetric services. More than 100 rural hospital birthing units have closed across the United States since 2020 as healthcare providers contend with declining birth rates, workforce shortages, and reimbursement levels that often fail to cover the true cost of care.
Despite these challenges, BMH says it remains committed to maintaining local access to maternity services and is actively pursuing solutions to ensure their long-term sustainability. The hospital is working closely with Vermont policymakers, regulators, healthcare organizations, and the Vermont Agency of Human Services to advocate for improved funding and support for rural maternity care.
BMH has also established a task force of clinicians, staff members, and community partners to explore innovative strategies that will help preserve obstetric services for future generations.
“Maternity care is more than a hospital service—it is foundational to a thriving community,” said Dr. Corina Tennant, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at BMH. “Local birth services support young families, contribute to a strong workforce, and help attract and retain residents. They also reduce the risks and stress associated with traveling long distances for prenatal care and delivery.”
BMH’s Birthing Center has earned a reputation for delivering safe, patient-centered care while consistently meeting rigorous standards for quality and safety. The hospital’s experienced team of physicians, certified nurse midwives, nurses, and support staff provides comprehensive care designed to meet the unique needs of every family.
“Our obstetrics program has long been recognized for its quality, safety, and compassionate approach to care,” Dr. McLarney said. “That commitment remains at the center of every decision we make. We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary dedication, expertise, and resilience of our Birthing Center team, whose work makes a profound difference in the lives of local families every day.”
BMH says it is encouraging community members to play an active role in supporting local maternity care. Community members can advocate for state and federal policies that provide fair and sustainable funding for rural maternity services.
Additionally, charitable contributions to BMH’s Birthing Center help ensure that future generations of families can continue to access care.
“Every birth at BMH strengthens our ability to sustain this essential service,” Dr. McLarney said. “Together, we can help ensure that local families have access to the exceptional maternity care they deserve, right here in our community.”
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.