The Regional Health Agency and the private group Cap Santé have announced the temporary closure, from December 19, of the Ganges maternity hospital.
This rural commune of the Hérault is located at the gates of the Cévennes.
For weeks, the population had mobilized to avoid this outcome.
A petition had in particular been signed by more than 5,000 people.
In vain.
No obstetrician-gynecologist responded to the call to replace the three health professionals needed to maintain activity in the Saint-Louis clinic.
One hour minimum drive to Montpellier or Nîmes
The inhabitants denounce the disappearance of “an essential local service” which exposes them “to unacceptable risks”.
To give birth, from December 19, they will have to go to Montpellier or Nîmes, towns located (in the best case) an hour's drive away.
“The authorization for maternity is maintained”, underlines Didier Jaffre, director general of the ARS, who wants to be optimistic.
“The day we find all the doctors, it will reopen.
»
While waiting for a hypothetical reopening, a local perinatal center will welcome future mothers and young mothers within the establishment.
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