The Hogan administration last Wednesday withdrew an emergency procurement item from the Board of Public Works agenda that would have privatized certain health care services now taking place at the state-owned Western Maryland Hospital Center (AFSCME MD fights to save Western Maryland Hospital Center). “But like any good zombie, it can come back from the dead,” responded AFSCME Maryland. “We will remain vigilant in order to keep healthcare options available to Marylanders.” Maryland Health Secretary Dennis Schrader told the Board of Public Works members that the state would seek a more conventional arrangement to provide health care services in Western Maryland later in the fall. Schrader said the administration decided to change course after public criticism of the proposed contracts and private reservations from Comptroller Peter Franchot (D), one of three members on the BPW.
– Adapted from a report in Maryland Matters