Registered nurses are strongly against the San Benito County Health Care District board’s decision to start talks exclusively with the Michigan-based Insight Foundation before the proposed sale of Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital. Despite this, nurses understand that voters will ultimately decide Hazel Hawkins’ fate in November. They promise to oppose efforts to privatize this crucial public asset.
Sonia Duran, a registered nurse, expressed concern about the board’s apparent bias toward a private buyer. She emphasized that Hazel Hawkins belongs to the people of the San Benito Health Care District, urging voters to weigh in on its future.
Diane Beck, another registered nurse, highlighted the importance of public accountability in healthcare. She warned that privatization could prioritize profit over patient care, potentially raising costs and hindering access to essential services.
Nurses pointed out that multiple buyers, including San Benito County, have shown interest since the hospital announced its search for partners. The county’s proposal involves establishing a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) to oversee Hazel Hawkins, ensuring it remains a public asset.
Ariahnna Sanchez, a registered nurse, challenged the board’s portrayal of Hazel Hawkins as failing, noting that its closure is not imminent if the sale to Insight doesn’t proceed. She questioned Insight’s plans for the hospital, urging transparency regarding funding sources and long-term viability. Sanchez emphasized the importance of community control over Hazel Hawkins’ future, expressing a desire to see it flourish for generations to come.
