In the wake of widespread changes in the health care industry, officials at Anderson Regional Medical Center, like many hospitals across the nation, have had to make some difficult decisions – most recently, to close three of the hospital’s specialty centers, according to a statement released by the hospital Friday.

    “The effects of these changes have impacted our clinic system, and we have been working diligently to overcome these issues,” John Anderson, the hospital’s interim CEO, said. “Unfortunately, the actions taken have not resulted in the improvements necessary to continue operating three of our specialty clinics – Anderson Arthritis and Rheumatology Center, Anderson Endocrinology Center and Anderson Infectious Disease Center.”

    The clinics will close April 16.

    Anderson Arthritis & Rheumatology Center, located at 2124 14th St., (Medical Towers II) is a wellness-based practice that provides health care for rheumatologic disease processes and arthritic conditions.

    Anderson Endocrinology Center, located at 1516 23rd Ave., offers diagnosis and treatment for the diabetes, thyroid diseases, metabolic disorders, over- or under-production of hormones, menopause, osteoporosis, hypertension, cholesterol (lipid) disorders and cancers of the endocrine gland.

    Anderson Infectious Disease Center, located at 1020 22nd Ave., treats patients who have infections or inflammatory conditions, including: bone and joint infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bloodstream infections, respiratory infections including pneumonia, sexually transmitted infections, HIV and AIDS, hepatitis, tuberculosis, tick-borne infections, (e.g., Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever), urinary tract infections, heart valve infections, diabetic foot infections, surgical wound infections, animal bite wounds, fever of unknown cause, recurrent infections, fungal infections, viral infections and travel/tropical medicine (including pre- and post-travel health assessment.

    “Arriving at the decision to close these clinics was not taken lightly and was made only after exhausting all other options,” Anderson said.

    “We will be communicating with our patients directly to transition their care over the coming weeks, and we encourage them to visit with their primary care provider to discuss options,” he said.

    Anderson Diabetes Center is not affected by the closure and will remain a major resource of support and education services for diabetic patients and their healthcare providers, Anderson said.