Mass. launches ’emergency operations plan’ for Steward hospitals [Video]

Massachusetts officials announced Friday the activation of an “Emergency Operations Plan” in response to the crisis involving Steward Health Care’s remaining facilities across the state. The for-profit, private equity-backed hospital group’s troubles exploded into view this year with the revelation that it owed about $50 million in unpaid rent. Steward officials subsequently closed one facility and have expressed interest in selling their other holdings. State officials said they are concerned about ensuring that Steward’s eight hospitals have the necessary supplies, equipment and staffing until the crisis is resolved. Officials also want to be in place to respond to any “transitions in care” that could create cascading effects for the health care system. According to a statement issued Friday by the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Department of Public Health, the plan includes creating an incident command system to coordinate the state’s response.Video below: CEO skips hearing”The Incident Command System incorporates the …