Johnson Memorial Health Services (JMHS) announced on September 21 that its Board of Directors has approved the planned closure of Johnson Memorial Assisted Living following a comprehensive evaluation of the program’s long-term sustainability.
The decision follows careful consideration of numerous factors, including occupancy trends, financial performance, operational challenges, and the organization’s responsibility to ensure the long-term sustainability of healthcare services for the communities it serves. While difficult, the Board determined that discontinuing the Assisted Living program is in the best long-term interest of the organization and the community.
“This was not a decision that was made lightly,” said Jake Redepenning, Chief Executive Officer of Johnson Memorial Health Services. “Our Board and leadership team carefully evaluated every aspect of the Assisted Living program. Throughout this process, our primary focus has remained on doing what is right for our residents, supporting our employees, and ensuring Johnson Memorial Health Services remains a strong and sustainable healthcare provider for years to come.”
The Assisted Living closure will occur through a carefully planned transition process rather than an immediate shutdown. JMHS will work individually with each resident and their family to develop a personalized transition plan and assist in identifying an appropriate future residence. Residents will continue receiving care and services throughout the transition period until relocation is complete.
JMHS is also committed to supporting employees affected by the closure. Human Resources and leadership will meet individually with staff to discuss employment opportunities within the organization whenever possible and provide guidance throughout the transition process.
The closure impacts only the Assisted Living program. Johnson Memorial Health Services will continue to provide healthcare services through its Critical Access Hospital, Rural Health Clinics, Care Center, Ambulance Service, Rehabilitation Services, Laboratory, Imaging Department, and other outpatient and support services.
Following the completion of the Assisted Living closure, the space will be converted to hospital space to support the organization’s long-term strategic vision. While the Board has identified this as the intended direction, specific plans for the space have not yet been finalized. Leadership and the Board of Directors will continue evaluating future opportunities that best support patient care, community healthcare needs, and the long-term sustainability of JMHS.
Repurposing the space for hospital operations also creates opportunities to better utilize the existing facility while supporting future hospital services and optimizing the organization’s campus for evolving healthcare needs.
JMHS remains committed to transparency throughout the closure process and will continue providing updates to residents, families, employees, referral partners, and the community as additional information becomes available. The organization will maintain a dedicated Assisted Living Closure webpage containing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), important documents, community meeting information, and additional resources. Community members are encouraged to visit the website regularly, as information will be updated throughout the implementation process. A public community meeting will also be held to provide additional information, answer questions, and discuss the transition process.
“Our mission has always been To Provide High-Quality, Compassionate Healthcare, Close to Home”, Redepenning said. “Although this marks the end of one important service, it also allows us to strengthen our organization and better position JMHS to meet the healthcare needs of our communities well into the future.”
Additional Resources
JMHS JMAL Closure Presentation
Questions may also be directed to the JMHS Administration Office using the contact information below.
Jake Redepenning, CEO
Phone: 320-312-2101
Email: [email protected]