In a concerning trend, profitable Los Angeles hospitals are increasingly closing labor and delivery units, disproportionately impacting low-income and minority communities. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital, serving a predominantly Black and Latino population, is the latest to face potential closure of its maternity ward due to financial strain.
The hospital, which delivered over 1,000 babies last year, is seeking $25 million from the state to maintain operations. CEO Dr. Elaine Batchlor emphasized the critical role the hospital plays, stating, “We’re serving a community that is 90% people of color. We’re serving a community that is facing huge health disparities.”
Across Los Angeles, at least eight hospitals have shut down maternity services since 2017, with most located in lower-income, majority-minority neighborhoods. This leaves pregnant women with fewer options and longer travel times for care.
Assemblymember Mike Gipson, whose district includes the hospital, is advocating for state funding. “It would be devastating for the community,” he said of the potential closure.
The trend highlights the challenges hospitals face in balancing financial viability with serving vulnerable populations. As policymakers and healthcare leaders seek solutions, the fate of maternity care access for underserved communities in Los Angeles hangs in the balance.
