The Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) is planning to address the proposed cuts to services at North Memorial hospitals and clinics in Robbinsdale. The cuts include the elimination of outpatient mental health programs and two neonatal intensive care units, affecting over 100 employees who will lose their jobs by the end of August. This decision will also force 3,400 patients to find new healthcare providers.
North Memorial executives cited rising health care costs as the reason behind the cuts, stating that 75% of their patients rely on government subsidies. Earlier this year, the Hennepin County Commission eliminated the hospital’s $22 million subsidy due to increasing expenses at North Memorial and Hennepin Healthcare, the county’s main hospital. MNA leaders accuse North Memorial of prioritizing investments in wealthier communities over essential services.
In response to financial challenges, North Memorial is seeking participation in a direct Medicaid reimbursement program through the Minnesota Legislature to help cover their expenses. The MNA is holding a press conference on Monday at 2 p.m. to address the impact of the proposed cuts on patients and healthcare workers.