Last church-run health system in Alabama looses Catholic identity
Summary
After the ownership changes to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Alabama will lose its last church-led healthcare system, St Vincent. Bishop Raica hopes that the new ownership will still try to preserve St Vincent’s mission to care for patients experiencing poverty and promote their spiritual well-being. In response, UAB has stated that while they are a secular hospital, they will advocate that the hospital is open to all and committed to serving all people.
Relevance
Catholics in the community are concerned about how the formerly Catholic hospital will uphold their values, given its significance to local residents. Bishop Raica expresses her dissatisfaction with the change, fearing it may prevent Catholic community members from receiving care in accordance with their faith. Additionally, the article highlights that the Catholic hospital has long prioritized caring for individuals experiencing poverty.