Kennedy Joins Bipartisan Milford Delegation to Give Testimony in Favor of Yale New Haven Health Systems Purchase of Milford Hospital

ORANGE, CT  — Today, State Representatives Kathy Kennedy (R-Milford and Orange) and Charles Ferraro joined State Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) and State Representative Kim Rose (D-Milford) to give public testimony to the Office of Health Strategy in favor of allowing the asset purchase agreement of Milford Hospital by Bridgeport Hospital/Yale New Haven Health Systems.

“I am happy to have had the opportunity to testify with the Milford delegation regarding the proposed Milford Hospital merger,” said Rep. Kennedy. “The most important part of this planned merger is making sure Milford Hospital has long-term financial stability going forward. Seeing so many hospital employees, volunteers and community members come out in support shows not only the importance of Milford Hospital to the community, but also the pride of its employees towards their community and their work.”

“Milford Hospital is an important asset for area residents,” said Rep. Ferraro. “Losing Milford Hospital would have a significant impact on our communities. The transfer of ownership will save hundreds of jobs, protect the retirements of former employees, and means area residents can get quality healthcare right in our backyards. I hope this transfer is approved.”

“For almost a century, Milford Hospital has been a pillar in our community, caring for us and our neighbors, and employing our friends and family,” said Sen. Maroney. “This partnership is necessary to save Milford Hospital and the jobs of its hard-working staff, who work tirelessly to save the lives of individuals in our community every day.”

Without this purchase agreement, it is likely the Milford Hospital, which is one of the largest employers in Milford, would be forced to close. The purchase agreement would establish a partnership with Bridgeport Hospital/Yale New Haven Health Systems which will equal more job opportunities, expansion of clinical services and streamlined care throughout the region, thanks to a single integrated electronic medical record system.

Under this partnership, Milford Hospital staff will become part of the new, integrated hospital with Bridgeport Hospital. Inpatient/outpatient care will continue from the Milford Campus. The partnership will establish financial stability and job security for employees. It will enable Milford Hospital to chart a course for growth, strengthening its’ ability to serve members of the community. Lawmakers said this is a win-win for patients, the hospital, region and Milford community.

“So many people in our community rely on and need the services offered by Milford Hospital,” said Sen. Maroney. “A strong Milford Hospital means a strong and healthy community. This partnership strengthens our community and our entire region as well. ”

“I am pleased to stand with my colleagues today in support of the merger of Milford Hospital and Bridgeport Hospital/Yale New Haven Health Systems,” said Rep. Rose. “Milford Hospital employs many of our residents and offers critical care services to our community. This merger will ensure that we retain jobs and can continue to offer premier medical services to our community.”