Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic has a new way for people to get information regarding the system's plans to move certain services from its Albert Lea hospital to its Austin facility.
The system said in a news release it has added a section to its public website specifically devoted to this goal. The section includes answers to questions such as "What is changing?" as well as "Why is change needed?" and "How was this decision made?" Mayo also addresses "myths and misconceptions" regarding the change and provides an expected timeline.
"As members of the community ourselves, we understand how any changes to hospital services can have an impact — not just on patients and staff, but also on the community as a whole," said Tricia Dahl, operations administrator for Mayo Clinic Health System – Albert Lea and Austin. "As we respond to the changing healthcare environment so that we can continue to provide high-quality care, preserve jobs and keep healthcare costs affordable, we want to do a more effective job of sharing information, updates and context."
Ms. Dahl also addressed "rumor and speculation" that has been circulating since Mayo announced plans to consolidate inpatient surgeries, overnight hospitalization, maternity and intensive care in Albert Lea on the Austin campus in June. Cancer care, dialysis, hyperbaric wound care, primary and specialty care, emergency care, pregnancy care and radiology are among the services that will still be offered in Albert Lea.
"Unfortunately, rumor and speculation can get more attention than the accurate information, and the more people see these misconceptions the easier it is to believe them," she said. "We encourage people in the community to use this site to learn more."
Mayo said it is also committed to community engagement such as meeting with city and county elected officials and community and business leaders regarding the consolidation plans. Additionally, the system said its leaders are participating in a citizen advisory panel requested by the City of Albert Lea, and outreach meetings are being scheduled with business and civic groups and service clubs in both communities.