The Glenn Medical Center is set to close its emergency room and hospital services on October 21, leaving the community and its employees in distress. Staff members are now focused on job searches, while there remains a glimmer of hope for a last-minute resolution.
Bradley Ford, Assistant Emergency Room Manager, expressed the devastation felt by both the community and the staff. He noted the potential loss of lives and the impact on employees who have dedicated their careers to the center.
The closure follows the denial of the center’s critical care license renewal by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) after 25 years. New zoning regulations indicated that the center was too close to Colusa Medical Center, which contributed to the rejection of their accreditation application essential for funding.
Although clinic services and medical records will be accessible for a limited time post-closure, Ford indicated that clinical services will eventually need to relocate, though a timeline has yet to be established.
Brittny Mundy, Director of Nursing, emphasized efforts to assist the 250 affected employees in finding new roles within the company and beyond. The loss of the emergency room is particularly concerning for patients experiencing heart attacks and strokes, with estimates suggesting an increase in morbidity rates due to the need for extended transport times.
Ford acknowledged the financial constraints faced by the county that hinder the possibility of saving the hospital but remains hopeful for a miracle that might allow services to continue.
Community members are expressing frustration over the loss of local healthcare services. Ivan DeHerrera highlighted the importance of having accessible emergency care in rural areas, especially for farming families who may face urgent medical situations.
Ford also mentioned that the emergency room could close before the set date if staffing levels fall below safe operational standards, although Mundy reassured that the staff is committed to remaining until the end of operations.
In response to the impending closure, Glenn Medical Center will host a job fair on September 16 to assist employees in finding new employment opportunities across various sectors.
