Protests Erupt Against UVM Health Network’s Proposed Service Cuts in Vermont
Protests Erupt Over Healthcare Service Cuts in Vermont
On November 21, 2024, about 80 demonstrators gathered outside the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin to protest proposed health care service cuts. The University of Vermont Health Network plans to implement extensive cuts, including closing clinics and adjusting inpatient and outpatient services.
The proposed changes target several vital services. Among these are the closure of the family medicine clinic in Waitsfield, an inpatient psychiatric unit at the Central Vermont Medical Center, and the reduction of inpatient services at the Burlington hospital by approximately 10%. These cuts extend to dialysis facilities in Rutland, Newport, and St. Albans, and the termination of transplant services at UVM Medical Center.
Patty Croccolo, a long-time patient of the clinic, expressed her concerns during the protest, highlighting the excellent care she received during her cancer diagnosis. “I don’t want to see this facility taken away,” she said. Many community members joined her to voice their frustrations.
The leadership of the UVM Health Network cites the Green Mountain Care Board as the reason for these cuts. They claim that recent regulations limiting revenue growth and commercial insurance rates have forced them to reduce services. Stephen Leffler, president of UVM Medical Center, stated, “This is not what anyone wants” but explained their lack of options due to healthcare regulations.
Critics argue that the network’s decisions are unjustified. Mike Fisher, the Vermont chief healthcare advocate, publicly criticized the cuts, stating they harm the community’s ability to maintain health care stability. He argued that such decisions should only be made in emergencies.
In central Vermont, the news of closing psychiatric beds has raised serious concerns. Rep. Anne Donahue expressed “shock and real fear about what happens to people” needing mental health care. She emphasized that inpatient treatment is critical for those at risk.
Desiree de Waal, treasurer of the Vermont Kidney Association, noted the challenges dialysis patients face, especially concerning transportation in rural areas. The network is reportedly in discussions with other hospitals to maintain dialysis services.
As community members and healthcare advocates continue to rally against these cuts, the future of healthcare access and availability in Vermont hangs in the balance.