Healthcare workers, community members outraged over South Bay maternity ward closing

South Bay health care workers and their supporters pounded the pavement Tuesday to protest Scripps Mercy Chula Vista's decision to close its maternity ward.

The department will be consolidated with Scripps Mercy in Hillcrest: a decision that critics say will hurt many of the mothers and babies they should be helping.

Dr. Latisa Carson is an OB/GYN for Scripps Mercy Chula Vista, and said many of these patients are often from low-income communities and simply won't, or can't, travel the 12 miles or so to Hillcrest.

"In the South Bay area, it won't work," she said, pointing out that many patients rely on public transportation.

[tybryga]

My oldest and my youngest niece were born at that hospital exactly 11 years apart...to the day. Many memories were made in labor and delivery @ Scripps Mercy CV. God bless everyone involved ❤❤

[jjray]

We should ask the Sharp decision makers to drive or take the bus while in labor from Chula Vista to Hillcrest.

[checosmith]

It's just economics and bonuses for management and, at the end screws low income future families