Service changes in ⁣Lavonia and Athens, Georgia

St. Mary’s Health Care System, ‍based in athens, Georgia, announced on September 17, 2025, that it will consolidate labor and⁤ delivery services ​from St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital in Lavonia, Georgia, to​ its St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens. This decision also includes the closure of St. Mary’s ⁤Medical Group’s Clear⁢ Creek OB-GYN practice in Lavonia, with both ⁣transitions scheduled for late October.

Factors Driving the Decision

The ⁢health system cited “meaningful challenges” as the primary driver for this consolidation. According to a system news release, an 18-month‌ evaluation period included attempts to recruit⁤ physicians, establish new partnerships, and secure additional funding. However, demographic shifts in the region, difficulties in ‌physician​ recruitment, increasing numbers of patients seeking labor and delivery care outside the system, and recent⁣ reductions in Medicaid⁣ funding ultimately solidified the decision.

Declining birth ‍rates at⁤ Sacred Heart Hospital also contributed ‍to the change. The hospital has consistently⁣ delivered fewer than one baby per day for the⁤ past several years, and‌ this trend is projected to‌ continue.

Support for⁤ patients‌ and Employees

St. Mary’s Health Care System is​ committed to supporting both patients and employees during this transition. The⁣ system will ‌assist ⁢impacted employees in finding alternative positions within ⁣st. ⁤Mary’s, ensuring continuity of employment where possible. Details regarding patient⁣ care continuity will be communicated directly to those affected.