AG: Archdiocese Should Give Up Control of Caritas

The state attorney general has recommended that Roman Catholic church leaders in Boston give up control of their financially struggling hospital chain.

A report Thursday from Attorney General Martha Coakley's office recommends that Archdiocese of Boston leaders should surrender control on most hospital management matters to an independent governing board. Coakley says church leaders should retain influence only over the religious direction of the Caritas Christi hospitals.

The report also says Caritas should review contracts and compensation with its network of doctors.

The state began reviewing the six-hospital Caritas Christi Health Care System in November because of its financial troubles and failed efforts to find a buyer.