Financial woes continue at Sturgis Hospital

Sturgis Hospital CEO Rob LaBarge announced Thursday that 60 positions will be eliminated starting Monday due to financial struggles the hospital has experienced the past 18 months.
A reorganization plan to be implemented next week includes the closing of the hospital’s obstetric services, its Oncology Treatment Center and the discontinuation of hospice services. There will also be a reduction of inpatient medical and surgical services, and modifications to the hospital’s emergency room.
Further cuts include closing non-profitable departments, such as its Wound Clinic, Home Health, Pain Clinic and an urgent care center in Constantine.
LaBarge said the hospital will focus on outpatient services, and that the goal is to keep the most in-demand services available locally while partnering with other health systems to supply inpatient and specialty medical services.
The moves were harshly criticized by the Michigan Nurses Association, local officials and State Rep. Aaron Miller.