Hospital operator Steward Health Care has filed for bankruptcy protection, but pledged to maintain the eight hospitals it operates in Massachusetts. Company officials said Steward took the step Monday as a necessary measure to allow the company to continue to provide necessary care to its patients. The Texas-based company said it does not expect any interruptions in its day-to-day operations, which will continue in the ordinary course throughout the Chapter 11 process. Steward’s troubles in Massachusetts have drawn watchful eye of top political figures in the state. Democratic Gov. Maura Healey said the state had been preparing for a possible bankruptcy filing. Read moreHospital operator Steward Health Care files for bankruptcy protection