The Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) is set to hold a press conference on Monday at 2 p.m. to address the proposed cuts to services at North Memorial hospitals and clinics in Robbinsdale. The cuts, which will be implemented by the end of August, include the elimination of outpatient mental health programs and two neonatal intensive care units, affecting over 100 employees who will lose their jobs.
North Memorial executives have cited rising healthcare costs as the reason behind the cuts, stating that 75% of their patients rely on government subsidies. Earlier this year, the Hennepin County Commission eliminated the hospital’s $22 million subsidy due to increasing expenses at North Memorial and Hennepin Healthcare, the county’s main hospital. MNA leaders have accused North Memorial of prioritizing investments in wealthier communities over essential services.
In response to financial challenges, North Memorial is seeking participation in a direct Medicaid reimbursement program through the Minnesota Legislature to help cover their expenses. The MNA has accused North Memorial of neglecting essential services and failing to prioritize patient care over profits.
The proposed cuts will force 3,400 patients to find new healthcare providers, leaving many families without access to critical medical care. The MNA is calling on lawmakers and community leaders to intervene and prevent these cuts from happening. They are demanding that North Memorial prioritize patient care over profits and invest in essential services for all communities.
