Randolph-area residents discuss future of Gifford Medical Center
Randolph-area community members turned out Tuesday night to discuss the future of Gifford Medical Center. It comes as a new report in September said it was among hospitals in the state that are not financially sustainable.
“The care that I received, that my family received at the birthing center completely redefined what community meant to me,” said Sophie, a Randolph resident.
“I am alive today because of the superior care that I received in the emergency room at Gifford,” said another resident, Robin Goddall.
For over an hour, rural central Vermont residents shared their stories through tears about how Gifford saved their lives and was the place where their most loved ones were born and where they died. Many shared their fears that Gifford may close, but the administration says they’re not going anywhere.
“To keep rural hospitals open is a significant challenge. It cannot be wished away,” said Gifford CEO Michael Costa.
The community forum was in response to a report that listed Gifford as an “at-risk hospital” with “major restructuring needed” to keep them open.