A hospital in Sandpoint, Idaho, the first US state to adopt the Texas model of outlawing abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, will shortly stop providing labor and delivery services. President of Bonner General Health Ford Elsaesser in a statement said, “We have made every effort to avoid eliminating these services.” “We hoped to be the exception, but our challenges are impossible to overcome now,” Elsaesser added.
The hospital stated that it intends to continue operations until May 19, 2023
Because of the political climate generated in the state, which includes an abortion law that can now land doctors in jail, skilled physicians and pediatricians are abandoning the area. The hospital’s failure to attract new patients adds to its load. In light of these issues, the hospital attempted to recruit replacements, but these attempts were similarly futile because new doctors are afraid of relocating to the state.
The hospital stated that it intends to continue operations until May 19, 2023, but that this will be contingent on personnel. According to the hospital’s announcement, the 25-bed facility would discontinue pediatrician coverage in order to manage newborn resuscitations and perinatal care. Erin Binnall, the hospital’s public information officer, said, “[Our] commitment to patient safety drives our decisions in the available services we can provide to our community, even with the most challenging choices having to be made.” “Therefore, [we have] made the emotional and difficult decision to discontinue providing obstetrical services,” Binnall added.