Eileen Markey

The attorney general of Washington, D.C., is examining financial records related to Providence Hospital, a Catholic facility that operates in one of the poorest sections of the city and that is slated for closing.

Opponents of the shutdown are appealing to the courts and the National Labor Relations Board to force Ascension healthcare system to keep Providence Hospital open, arguing it has a responsibility to sick patients who still need service. But, so far, Ascension is winning the battle.

Ascension Healthcare says it is creating a new model to address changing health needs. Critics say the hospital is abandoning marginalized patients and its Catholic mission while its leadership collects exorbitant salaries.