From The Star Team
Pavia Hospital in Hato Rey is set to terminate nearly 70 employees beginning January 31, 2025, according to a spokesperson for the union representing the staff, who made the announcement on Monday.
This action has sparked anger among the employees. Desiré López, international representative of the United Auto Workers (UAW), stated that this decision is part of the hospital’s shift to a facility entirely focused on behavioral health, slated to start operations on February 1.
“We are confronting a situation that has led to distress and anxiety among staff, particularly during this festive season when termination notices will be handed out to these individuals,” López remarked. “Based on documents provided by the hospital, only certain departments like pharmacy and diet will be retained. We will be convening with the hospital administration next week to explore the specifics of this decision and any compensation they will offer.”
The union representative highlighted that the island’s Department of Health has already greenlighted the closure of multiple sections of the hospital, including the emergency room, leaving over 100 employees facing job instability.
The workforce includes graduate and practical nurses, operating room technicians, laboratory staff, maintenance, and other essential areas like radiology, respiratory therapy, operating room, and intensive care.
“We vehemently denounce that this decision was made public during the Christmas holiday,” López stated. “This is a devastating blow to the employees, their families, and the patients who rely on the hospital’s services. This action is a betrayal of those who have devoted years to serving the hospital and the Hato Rey community.”
López emphasized that the hospital’s closure will adversely affect both workers and the community that relies on its healthcare services. The lack of an emergency room and other critical services signifies a substantial loss for local residents, who will be compelled to seek care at nearby hospitals that may experience increased overload, she noted.
The UAW has urged the Department of Health and hospital leadership to maintain transparency throughout this process and to explore options that would lessen the effects of this decision. They also called on government officials to step in to ensure that workers’ rights are upheld and that they are provided with realistic opportunities for ongoing employment in the healthcare sector.
