Dear Commissioner McDonald,

I was distressed to read reports that St. Peter’s Health Partners is seeking state authorization to
close the Burdett Birth Center at Samaritan Hospital. Not only is it the only maternity ward in
Rensselaer County, their practitioners are known for delivering quality care to vulnerable
populations in the city of Troy, including the uninsured and those facing housing and
transportation insecurity.

Closing the birth center would jeopardize the health and wellness of thousands of families. It
would also strain neighboring obstetric service providers facing their own raft of challenges.

As a fellow native of the Capital Region, I know how devoted you are to this community. I’m
imploring you and your team to make every effort to negotiate with St. Peter’s leadership and
find a solution that keeps the facility open, enhances care and cements the trust the practitioners
have built within the community.

In the Senate, I will continue my efforts to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for providers,
especially those like Samaritan serving vulnerable populations.

If there is any way for me to be helpful to you in this gravely important matter, please reach out
to me any time.

Gratefully,

Jake Ashby
NYS Senator- 43rd District