9/09/2025

IRONWOOD – Friday we first announced the decision by Aspirus to end OB/GYN services at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital Now Upper Peninsula legislators have expressed anger and frustration with the decision. Sen. Ed McBroom called it “outrageous,” citing a lack of notice and previous surprises, including the 2023 closure of its Ontonagon facility and the ending of OB/GYN services at a Keweenaw facility. He noted the U.P. is now left with only six places to have a baby. Rep. Greg Markkanen accused Aspirus of lying about the Ontonagon closure and betraying his district. Over $1 million secured to help Ironwood’s OB/GYN services after the Ontonagon closure was apparently never used, leaving residents facing long distances for care. Rep. Dave Prestin called it a “bitter pill,” blaming state neglect and the hospital’s failure to deliver on promises. Rep. Karl Bohnak vowed to find a solution to help the communities recover.