MaineHealth Launches Independent Review of OB Unit Closure
MaineHealth has engaged a five-member independent panel to review its decision to close labor and delivery services at Lincoln Hospital in Damariscotta, Maine, following requests from the Maine Legislature and the Miles Delivers Action Coalition for a neutral examination. The panel includes experts in maternal health, clinical quality, rural healthcare, workforce, community engagement and operations, and will assess whether MaineHealth's data and process were fair and reasonable, as well as evaluate alternative proposals from community members. Findings will go to the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services, the coalition, the MaineHealth board and the public, with a lawmaker briefing due by Dec. 11; MaineHealth must respond in writing within 30 days of receiving the report. The birthing unit is scheduled to close Dec. 18, and transition planning will continue during the review.