State Reps. Santucci, David Thomas Release Statements Regarding Mercy Health Service Closures

State Representatives Nick Santucci (R-Niles) and David Thomas (R-Jefferson) today expressed disappointment with Mercy Health’s decision to discontinue labor and delivery services at St. Joseph Warren Hospital and consolidate those services at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital beginning in December.

Both representatives have spoken with Mercy Health regarding the decision and remain committed to strengthening healthcare access throughout Trumbull County and the Lake-to-River region.

Representative David Thomas addressed the challenges facing local healthcare providers:

“During my conversation with Mercy Health on October 28, hospital representatives cited declining birth rates and physician staffing shortages as reasons for consolidating their maternity services. I have requested additional data to better understand the circumstances surrounding this decision.” 

“While Mercy Health plans to expand specialized maternal and newborn care at St. Elizabeth Boardman and establish an additional 25-bed inpatient unit at St. Joseph Warren, I share the disappointment of families losing access to maternity services closer to home.

“This decision highlights the broader healthcare workforce challenges facing Ohio. We must continue investing in medical education, workforce development, and healthcare infrastructure to ensure our communities have access to the physicians and services they need,” said Thomas.

House Majority Whip Nick Santucci emphasized the importance of community advocacy and continued efforts to strengthen healthcare access:

“I have personally spoken with Mercy Health leadership and expressed my disappointment with this decision. I understand the concerns of families who depend on St. Joseph Warren Hospital, and I believe our residents deserve convenient access to quality healthcare close to home.

“Ultimately, Mercy Health is responsible for this decision. While state legislators can advocate for our communities, communicate concerns, and work with healthcare providers, we cannot dictate the operational decisions of a private hospital system. I encourage residents who share these concerns to communicate directly with Mercy Health leadership.

“Our focus must remain on strengthening healthcare access throughout Trumbull County. I will continue working with healthcare providers, local officials, and our local economic development partners to support opportunities that expand services, improve access to care, and meet the needs of our growing and changing healthcare landscape.

“Trumbull County families deserve quality healthcare services and meaningful choices. I remain committed to advocating for our residents and working with our community partners to strengthen healthcare throughout Trumbull County and the Lake-to-River region,” said Santucci.