BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

OGDENSBURG — North Star Health Alliance will begin closing labor and delivery services at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Campus which serves as the only birthing center within 30 miles.

NSHA announced July 14 that it has started the process of ending labor and delivery services at Claxton-Hepburn as part of a broader effort to stabilize the financially struggling health system.

The closure process will require approval from the New York State Department of Health, and the hospital said labor and delivery services will continue during the state review, which is expected to take at least 90 days.

It's unclear how many jobs will be impacted.

For Ogdensburg, the loss of local maternity services could create new challenges for expectant parents in a city of roughly 10,000 people where a significant portion of residents do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Employees say Claxton-Hepburn sees many emergency births, making it a critical healthcare resource not only for Ogdensburg residents but for families throughout St. Lawrence County.

North Star said the decision comes after a sustained decline in births across rural communities, along with the increasing cost of maintaining a 24-hour labor and delivery department.

“As patient volumes have declined, the significant costs associated with maintaining 24/7 labor and delivery services are no longer sustainable,” NSHA said in its announcement.

The announcement marks the latest major change for Claxton-Hepburn, which has been working through financial challenges as part of NSHA’s broader restructuring efforts.

“This announcement marks the end of an important chapter in the history of Claxton-Hepburn, and we recognize the impact it will have throughout our community,” Interim Chief Executive Officer Andy Manzer said. “While this was an extraordinarily difficult decision, we believe it is a necessary step as we work to strengthen the long-term future of North Star Health Alliance.”

For decades, families have traveled to Claxton-Hepburn to deliver their children, making the labor and delivery unit a major part of the hospital’s identity.

The closure process will include a public hearing and public comment period as required by the state Department of Health. NSHA said details about the hearing will be released once a date has been established.

The health system said it is working with state officials and regional healthcare providers to develop a transition plan for patients receiving obstetrical care.

Patients are being advised to continue attending scheduled appointments and following existing treatment plans. NSHA said patients will receive information about future delivery locations, provider transitions, appointment scheduling, medical record transfers and referrals as plans are finalized.

The hospital said clinical teams will work directly with patients to coordinate care and assist with transitions.

Patients with questions about obstetrical or gynecological services can contact the Claxton-Hepburn Women’s Health Clinic at 315-713-6700.

NSHA said labor and delivery services will remain available until all required approvals are obtained and that it remains committed to maintaining access to healthcare throughout the North Country.