Prime Healthcare to halt births at 3 Illinois hospitals by Oct. 1
Prime Healthcare will suspend obstetric services at three Illinois hospitals—St. Joseph in Joliet, Mercy in Aurora, and Resurrection in Chicago—effective October 1. The for-profit system cites low birth volumes and financial distress, planning to centralize care at St. Mary of Nazareth and Olympia Fields. Approximately 75 nurses will be reassigned, and the company will offer $1 million in community grants. The move follows recent cuts to pediatric and maternity units, drawing sharp criticism from unions and lawmakers who argue the decisions prioritize profit over local access.