An area hospital moves up plans to close its obstetrics department. Next Monday will be the final day for deliveries at Somerset Hospital. A little less than 3 weeks ago, the hospital announced plans to close its obstetrics unit within 60 days.
CEO Craig Saylor says staffing issues are responsible for the decision to close on September 19. He says current obstetrics patients will deliver at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center.
But in case of emergencies, a designated room with specialized equipment is being set up in the Somerset Hospital Emergency Department, and staff is being trained to deal with unexpected deliveries.
