Columbus, Ohio-based Mount Carmel Health System has shared plans to close its freestanding Mount Carmel Franklin Emergency Department, also in Columbus, Aug. 22.
Following the closure, the system will open a community-centered primary and prevention care hub, Mount Carmel Franklinton Care Center, Aug. 24 in Columbus, according to a June 25 news release.
The shift aims to address access, affordability, preventative care and continuity while also meeting community needs. Mount Carmel is also committed to retaining all existing Franklinton ED staff by reassigning them to other system care sites.
“Emergency departments are the most expensive point of access to care, and data shows that most people who currently visit the Franklinton emergency department do not require emergency services,” the release said. “Instead, they need same-day primary care, proactive preventative care and coordinated wrap-around support.”
The Mount Carmel Franklinton Care Center will provide walk-in and same day primary care with coordinated social and community support, extended hours, preventative and wellness services, mental healthcare and women’s health.
“This transformation is about making it easier for people to get the right care at the right time at an affordable price,” Brian Pierson, president of Mount Carmel South Region, said in a release. “We are growing smarter with the community and aligning our services with what the neighborhood needs now and in the future.”
Mount Carmel Health System comprises five hospitals, more than 9,000 employees and 2,041 physicians, the release added, as well as the Mount Carmel Health Plan, the Mount Carmel College of Nursing, Mount Carmel Medical Group and Mount Carmel Health Partners, including surgery centers, emergency, ambulatory care centers and hospital and home care services.
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