Merrimack Health Methuen Hospital closes maternity unit a month early

The labour and delivery unit at Merrimack Health Methuen Hospital will close earlier than planned. The shutdown begins on 29 June 2023, a month ahead of the original August date. The move affects expectant mothers and hospital staff alike. The closure was initially set for 1 August 2023 but will now start on 29 June. This will remove 24 obstetric beds, 28 well infant nursery bassinets and 10 special care nursery bassinets from service. Expectant mothers, especially those in high-risk groups, must now adjust their birth plans.

Lawrence General Hospital, about two miles away, will take over all labour and delivery care. Patients in labour emergencies can still arrive at Methuen but will be transferred to Lawrence if possible. After 29 June, all labour and delivery cases will go directly to Lawrence.

Some nurses will move to new roles at Lawrence General Hospital, while others will leave their positions. Both nurses and former patients have raised concerns about patient safety and the capacity of Lawrence General to handle the increased demand. The early closure disrupts delivery plans for many expectant mothers. It also reduces local maternity care options. The transition of services to Lawrence General Hospital is now underway.