Policoro Hospital Faces ICU and Maternity Ward Closure Amid Local Opposition

The Giovanni Paolo II Hospital in Policoro, Italy, is set to shut its intensive‑care unit and maternity department. The plan, backed by the municipal administration led by Mayor Enrico Bianco, would leave only the emergency department operating, with patients redirected to the larger hospital in Matera. Local activists from the “Comitato Spontaneo di Cittadini in difesa dell’ospedale di Policoro” warn that recent transfers have already resulted in two deaths, arguing that the closures jeopardise patient safety, especially for critical obstetric cases.

Opponents contend that the decision is driven by a desire to increase patient numbers at Matera’s facilities, noting that the Matera ICU recently expanded its beds from eight to nineteen. They also highlight the imminent loss of obstetric staff due to retirements and transfers, which would force expectant mothers to travel long distances for care. The committee plans continued protests and information campaigns to pressure the authorities to keep the ICU and birth point open.