Lawmakers, including senators from both parties, are planning to take action against Steward Health Care CEO Ralph de la Torre if he doesn't show up for a hearing on Capitol Hill. Sen. Bill Cassidy emphasized the importance of de la Torre testifying to provide insight and potentially clear his name in the midst of the company's bankruptcy proceedings.
The company's bankruptcy earlier this year, along with the closure of hospitals and struggles to find buyers, has raised concerns about how private equity investors like de la Torre benefited while leaving health care workers and patients in need. The decision to issue a subpoena to compel de la Torre's testimony is rare, with Sen. Ed Markey referring to him as a "fugitive on the run" if he refuses to comply with the legal order to appear before Congress.
In addition to facing scrutiny from Congress, Steward Health Care is under investigation by the Department of Justice, looking into the compensation and actions of its top executives, including de la Torre. The spokesperson for de la Torre defended his actions, stating that he had done everything possible to address patient needs and company challenges, which was refuted by Markey, who accused de la Torre of violating his Hippocratic oath. Despite political differences, senators like Cassidy and Markey are united in their commitment to ensuring people receive the healthcare they need and addressing financial schemes that impacted patient care at Steward hospitals.