Midwifery unit at Lohja Hospital faces imminent closure impacting staff and patients

A midwifery unit at Lohja Hospital is facing imminent closure, with significant implications for staff and patients alike. Helen Paavola, a midwife at the facility, reported that her shift started during a hearing arranged by the management where two senior supervisors discussed her potential reassignment or possible dismissal.

The hospital group responsible for specialized healthcare in Uusimaa, HUS, is preparing to shut down the midwifery unit by the end of next week. Employee briefings lasting around 15 minutes have been organized, whereby staff must soon decide between transferring to other hospitals or risking termination from HUS. The organization has offered positions at other maternity hospitals in Helsinki, Espoo, and Hyvinkää to 40 affected workers on short notice. Despite this, Paavola lamented that it seems there was little choice involved regarding relocations, as some staff have been assigned their least preferred options.

During these staffing discussions, midwives finishing night shifts awaited their turn, with one colleague even in labor. Paavola expressed frustration over the timing of these meetings amid ongoing patient care, emphasizing the emotional strain of supporting colleagues while processing such shocking news.

HUS’s HR manager mentioned that discussions would proceed quickly due to feedback from professional organizations and staff. Meanwhile, many employees are facing significant upheaval in their lives. As Paavola prepares for her next role at Helsinki’s Women’s Clinic, she reflects on her time at Lohja with fondness, noting that colleagues are now looking at selling homes and changing cars due to the uncertain future. Four specialized doctors have already resigned in connection with the unit’s closure.