By Skyler Hollins
Augusta Health’s Buena Vista office will be temporarily closing beginning next Wednesday, July 2, due to a recent clinician resignation.
The office, located at 2054 Sycamore Ave., contacted patients and announced the news on their website. Staff is working to arrange alternative care for patients through Augusta Health Lexington or other medical offices “Augusta Health understands the deep connections between local clinics and their communities. We take our roles seriously in providing healthcare to our neighbors, but also the broader impact we have on the communities we provide services in,” said Augusta Medical Group President Kris Doan in a press release.
Buena Vista has limited primary health care providers and offices. Patients impacted by the Augusta Health temporary closure are struggling to be seen at other offices due to being booked months in advance.
Timothy Matthews has been a patient at the Buena Vista office since they opened in 2021. Due to its close proximity to his home, Matthews would walk to his medical appointments. He is now told he must find an alternative provider and rides to appointments in other areas.
“How am I supposed to get my medication for next month? What doctors am I supposed to go to?” asked Matthews. He said that the Augusta Medical office has a strong sense of community; wait times were short and people were always coming in.
Augusta Health’s goal, according to the press release, has been to expand telehealth options and outpatient services in the area, as well as provide full primary care services. The statement noted that Augusta Health is a community- owned, independent and non-for-profit service. The Buena Vista office is 3,000-square-feet and houses six exam rooms.
Augusta Health, said Doan, “has served generations of families and built lasting relationships with patients. We deeply value that legacy of care, and it remains at the heart of every decision we make as we move forward.”
A replacement clinician has not yet been found. For more information about Augusta Health services, visit www. augustahealth.com.
