MOUNT GILEAD — The healthcare industry is changing, especially for rural hospitals where 87 have closed across the U.S. since 2010. And according to the National Rural Health Association, more than 670 more rural hospitals are in danger of closing, squeezed by declining reimbursements, increased charity care and competition.
“Morrow County Hospital has faced similar challenges in recent years seeing inconsistent financial performance. We are now faced with making decisions that will not only bring financial stability to the hospital, but also allow us to sustain core healthcare services for the community we serve,” a news release issued Thursday afternoon said.
“As a result, Hospital Administration in partnership with the Morrow County Hospital Board of Trustees, has made the extremely difficult decision to close select departments being underutilized and where services are available elsewhere in our or nearby communities. This includes our Sleep Lab, Cardiopulmonary Rehab and Coumadin Clinic. We are working closely with impacted patients on a seamless transition of services.
“Impacted associates have been notified, given ample notice, as well as resources for finding other positions. These were incredibly hard decisions to make, especially for a rural hospital where all our associates are extremely valued and feel like family.
“This will position the hospital to focus and invest resources in services needed the most in the community, impacting a very small percentage of our patient population. We are truly committed to keeping our patients at the center of all we do and continuing to provide critical healthcare in the community.”
