By Mackenna Moralez, Associate Editor

Mississippi-based St. Dominic Hospital is eliminating 5.5 percent of its workforce by shutting down its Behavioral Health Service department. The closure means that 157 employees will be left without jobs. 

The abrupt closure comes after a series of financial challenges. The decision came after a detailed review of patient census, nearby availability of similar services, and staffing realities. According to a press release, no additional admissions will take place after 7 a.m. on June 6.  

“We recognize that mental health is a significant need, with various aspects of mental healthcare emerging as six of the top 25 needs identified in the most recent Community Health Needs Assessment,” says Scott Kashman, Market President and CEO, St. Dominic Health Services and St. Dominic Hospita. “While continuing to meet these needs directly is no longer viable for St. Dominic’s, we are working with partners to help patients access the care they need. Our health system will continue to advocate for additional state and federal resources to stabilize healthcare providers in Mississippi.”