Fort Madison Community Hospital and Blessing Health System (Quincy, Ill.) announced late Friday afternoon that they are closing the Keokuk Medical Center. The facility along Main Street in downtown Keokuk was open for about 2 ½ years.
“KMC filled a void in health care in the Keokuk market during a difficult time. Since then, other health care providers in the region have expanded their primary health care services, leading to the decision to close Keokuk Medical Center, allowing FMCH and Blessing to focus on other strategic health care needs in the region,” said FMCH in an email.
- Keokuk Area Hospital has since become affiliated with UnityPoint Health and Quincy Medical Group. UnityPoint is considered one of the largest non-profit health care providers in the country.
- Great River Health System is currently building a $7-million clinic in Keokuk. It’s about five times as large as Great River’s current clinic near Keokuk Area Hospital.
- Community Health Centers of SE Iowa is building a dental clinic in downtown Keokuk with plans for future expansion.
FMCH Spokesperson Angie Budnik said nine people work at the Keokuk Medical Center. She said they are considered FMCH employees and that efforts are underway to find them new jobs.
Patients will continue to be seen through August 31, 2018 and medical records will be available for pick-up through Sept. 28, 2018.
“Dr. Oetken and Dr. Bowen and their professional staff provide compassionate, quality health care to patients seeking care at the clinic,” said FMCH in the email. “Personal letters will be sent to all patients currently under the care of Dr. Oetken and Dr. Bowen with more details for continuity of care and how to attain their medical records.”
