CMH to take over clinic operations of Osceola hospital

Bolivar-based Citizens Memorial Healthcare announced yesterday it signed an agreement to take over the clinic operations of Sac-Osage Hospital in Osceola.

The SOH Board of Directors approved the affiliation during a July 15 meeting, after deciding to cease hospital operations, according to a CMH news release. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"I sincerely believe that the timing of these actions is critical. The old model of health care is just not sustainable in today’s’ health care reimbursement environment," SOH CEO M. Chris Smiley said in the release. "I want to thank all of my staff for the outstanding work they have done throughout the years, but especially for their steadfast dedication to this hospital and the community during this transition."

Open since 1969, SOH is closing by Sept. 1, according to a KY3 report. CMH spokeswoman Tamera Heitz-Peek confirmed the closure of the hospital and referred other questions to SOH Board Chairman Brandon Baker. He could not be reached for comment by deadline.

As part of the agreement, CMH will initially utilize SOH's Tri-County Clinic building as a family medicine practice and walk-in clinic open seven days a week. The facility also would include a retail pharmacy, telehealth services, outpatient lab, imaging services and rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational and speech therapies.

CMH also will assume responsibility for the Osceola hospital's ambulance service operations, with plans to purchase an additional vehicle to add to its two-ambulance fleet, according to the release.

CMH officials said staffing decisions would be made as needs are assessed, and SOH's 60 employees would have the opportunity to reapply.

“Our vision for this location is to offer a new model of care that is built on the residents’ needs,” CMH CEO Donald Babb said in the release. “We are committed to providing quality health care services with advanced technology and access to a variety of services.

“When services grow, our vision is to build a large new facility that will accommodate added service offerings and additional space for medical providers."

A public meeting is scheduled 5:30 p.m. July 29 at First Baptist Church in Osceola - about 37 miles northwest of Bolivar - to discuss the impact the affiliation would have on the region, according to the release.[[In-content Ad]]