New Mexico AG Eyes Obstetrical Services Closing

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas is demanding answers from a northern New Mexico hospital that ended obstetrical and delivery services six months ago. Balderas sent letters last week to leaders of the Alta Vista Regional Hospital in Las Vegas and said the closure had left an unacceptable gap in services for women in the area. The sudden closure left dozens of pregnant women without a local hospital to deliver newborns. The Democrat stopped short of threatening any action but said he is "tasked with oversight of charitable organizations in New Mexico." Hospital spokeswoman Linda Leyba didn't immediately return an email from The Associated Press. The hospital previously said the closure was due to "market conditions." The hospital later clarified that it was having difficulty staffing the unit.