Columbia, SC, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Cooperative Health, formerly Eau Claire Cooperative Health, will close six clinics in August due to ongoing financial issues affecting access to healthcare in several counties. The closures impact Lexington, Newberry, Fairfield, and Richland counties, raising concerns about the healthcare access for local residents. Patients will be redirected to nearby facilities, while some employees will be laid off as part of the restructuring. Community leaders are worried about the implications for vulnerable populations reliant on these services.
Columbia, SC – Cooperative Health, previously known as Eau Claire Cooperative Health, is set to close six of its clinics on Monday, August 25, as the organization grapples with persistent financial challenges. The closures will affect healthcare facilities in Lexington, Newberry, Fairfield, and Richland counties, prompting concerns about medical access for local residents.
Patients from the affected locations will be redirected to nearby Cooperative Health facilities, mitigating any potential interruptions in their healthcare. The organization has emphasized its commitment to maintaining continuity of care during this transition. However, local residents and community leaders are alarmed at the impact these closures may have on healthcare access, particularly for individuals who lack reliable transportation options.
Cooperative Health, a federally qualified health center that has served underserved communities since the 1980s, cited an increasing number of underinsured and uninsured patients as contributing factors to its financial distress. This situation has been exacerbated by evolving healthcare funding mechanisms and rising operational costs. Community responses indicate that healthcare access is especially critical for residents in rural areas, many of whom rely heavily on the services offered by Cooperative Health.
The six clinics slated for closure include the John Spratt Primary Care Center in Ridgeway, Lake Monticello Family Practice in Jenkinsville, a Podiatry office in Eau Claire, the Brookland-Cayce Medical Practice, which is relocating to a nearby facility, as well as a Pediatrics office and a women’s/internal medicine practice in Batesburg-Leesville merging into one location. This restructuring will result in the laying off of up to 80 employees, which includes 64 full-time staff and various on-call personnel. Those affected will receive a 60-day notice while continuing to receive pay and benefits until September 12.
Despite these significant changes, CEO Jaeson Fournier confirmed that Cooperative Health is not at immediate risk of closing its doors entirely. The organization serves approximately 50,000 patients annually and is focused on maintaining service quality through this financial restructuring. Fairfield County officials have indicated that these closures are part of a broader effort toward financial “right-sizing,” aiming to align resources more effectively.
Community leaders, including those from the South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center, have raised alarms about the potential consequences for residents, particularly those with limited resources. Many have expressed that losing these healthcare facilities could impede community growth and worsen health disparities among already vulnerable populations.
Transportation services will continue to be available for patients who need to travel to the new locations following the clinic closures. This measure aims to alleviate some concerns regarding access to necessary healthcare services.
As Cooperative Health navigates these changes, the commitment to serving its patient base and addressing financial challenges remains at the forefront of its mission. The healthcare organization urges community members to stay informed about their options and remain engaged during this transition period.
FAQ
Why is Cooperative Health closing six clinics?
Cooperative Health is closing six clinics due to ongoing financial pressures exacerbated by an increase in underinsured and uninsured patients.
When will the closures take effect?
The closures will take effect on Monday, August 25.
Which clinics will be closed?
The affected clinics include the John Spratt Primary Care Center in Ridgeway, Lake Monticello Family Practice in Jenkinsville, a Podiatry office in Eau Claire, Brookland-Cayce Medical Practice, and merging offices in Batesburg-Leesville.
What will happen to the patients from closed clinics?
Patients will be redirected to nearby Cooperative Health facilities, and the organization assures that there will be no interruption in their care during the transition.
How many employees will be affected by the closures?
Up to 80 employees will be laid off, including 64 full-time staff and various on-call personnel.
Will transportation services be available for patients?
Yes, transportation options will continue to be available for patients needing to visit the new locations after the closures.
Key Features of Cooperative Health Changes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | August 25 |
| Affected Counties | Lexington, Newberry, Fairfield, Richland |
| Total Clinics Closing | 6 |
| Employees Laid Off | Up to 80 |
| Patients Served Annually | 50,000 |
| Transportation Availability | Continues for patients |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WIS News: Midlands Healthcare Centers Closure
- Wikipedia: Healthcare in the United States
- The State: Healthcare Business News
- Google Search: Healthcare crisis midlands
- WACH: Midlands Faces Healthcare Crisis
- Google Scholar: Healthcare access disparities
- WLTX: Fairfield County Health Clinics Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Health Care
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