Rallying for Health Care: Workers Unite to Save State-Run Hospitals

News Summary

Hundreds of health care workers and advocates rallied at the State House against proposed budget cuts by Governor Maura Healey that threaten state-run hospitals. The passionate protest highlighted the importance of facilities like Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children and Pocasset Mental Health Center. Participants expressed concerns about cuts potentially impacting thousands of patients relying on vital health services, urging the administration to reconsider its plans and prioritize care over budget savings.

Rallying for Health Care: Workers Unite to Save State-Run Hospitals

In a spirited gathering, hundreds of **health care workers**, **labor union members**, and families of patients came together at the State House to voice strong opposition to data-driven budget cuts proposed by the governor. These concerned individuals rallied under the upbeat slogan **“Cares Not Cuts”**, ardently advocating for the preservation of crucial facilities like the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children and the Pocasset Mental Health Center.

This passionate demonstration came on the heels of Governor Maura Healey’s recent announcement to **pause** her controversial budget plans, which included closing the aforementioned facilities. The governor’s decision was seen as a direct response to the substantial public outcry regarding potential reductions in health care services. The atmosphere at the rally radiated determination and solidarity, with attendees brandishing signs adorned with slogans such as **“save our children,” “Health Care is a Human Right,”** and **“NO CUTS NO CLOSURES SAVE OUR SERVICES!”**

Highlighting the Heart of the Matter

Adding a deeply personal touch to the rally, three wheelchair-bound patients from Pappas participated, shining a light on the importance of this specialized hospital for children facing severe disabilities. This was a poignant reminder that health care isn’t just numbers on a budget sheet; it’s about real lives and the support families need.

Despite the temporary pause on facility closures, challenges loom large. Healey’s administration still plans to cut the number of Department of Mental Health (DMH) case managers from 340 to 170. This bold move has raised alarms, suggesting that over **4,000 individuals could lose vital services**, with approximately **2,000 new clients** not receiving the help they desperately need. The proposed budget cuts aim to save the state a staggering **$12.4 million** for the fiscal year 2026, but many are questioning whether those savings are worth the potential sacrifice of patient care.

Concerns on the Horizon

Leading legislators are advocating for a deeper examination of the governor’s budget proposal. Among these is the House Ways and Means Chair, who has emphasized the necessity of understanding the **full impact** of the cuts being considered. Advocates have been vocal, urging the administration to tap into the state’s robust **$9 billion rainy day fund** to stave off cuts to crucial health services.

The shadow of previous hospital closures, including facilities in various regions, has raised significant concerns about a shortage of mental health beds in the state. The proposed cuts come at a time when the demand for mental health support has surged, a reflection of the troubling post-pandemic landscape.

Currently, the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital is caring for **36 patients**, and plans are underway to move them to other facilities within the next six to nine months. Similarly, the Pocasset Mental Health Center stands as one of merely two inpatient psychiatric units serving both adults and children on Cape Cod, emphasizing its critical role in mental health care.

Voicing Concerns Over Future Care