Two UF Primary Care Clinics in Lake City are closing because there isn't enough money to keep them running. An organization called the Lake Shore Authority board partnered with UF in 2008 to open the clinics because there was not enough doctors to treat people in Columbia County.
The UF clinics were formerly funded by the Lake Shore Authority board, but they cut the funding. Health Management Associates (HMA) took over part of the Shands Lake Shore Hospital in May, and with their takeover, a decision was made to open their own clinics.
HMA is hoping to simply replicate the UF clinics that are closing. One UF official says while the change wont be easy, he is optimistic for the outcome.
The UF Primary Care Clinic Southwest is closing tomorrow and all patients and doctors will be transferred to the other UF Clinic West also in Lake City. Dr. Marvin Dewar says HMA and Lake Shore Authority Board will be replacing the clinics and all patients will be taken care of. As for the staff at both clinics that are closing, Dr. Dewar says UF has the resources to place employees in other practices if they decide not to stay at the new clinics.