Rochester, N.Y.-based Mosaic Health will close two of its dental clinics after experiencing changes in funding and workforce shortages, Rochester Business Journal reported June 4.
The federally qualified health center will close its dental clinics in Lyons and Mt. Morris, leaving behind clinics in Rushville, Utica and Ilion. The company said the two closing clinics will remain open for up to 90 days, depending on the remaining staff and the state regulatory process.
Both clinics were opened in 2010 to improve access to dental care in the surrounding communities. They are also located in health professional shortage areas, according to data from the Health Resources & Services Administration.
Mosaic Health Chief Dental Officer Melissa Copella, DDS, told the Rochester Business Journal that the center found it difficult to recruit dentists to serve in rural areas.
The Lyons clinic had two dentists and one dental hygienist on staff, while the Mt. Morris clinic has two dentists and two dental hygienists, according to the center's website.
"Mosaic Health has attempted to recruit more dentists, but it’s especially challenging to compete with higher salaries and the types of dentistry that dental professionals are seeking today," Dr. Copella said.
The center also saw a $4 million decrease in grant revenue, about 30% of its annual operating budget, which created a need for reduced expenses.
Mosaic Health will continue to treat dental patients from the two clinics at its Rushville and Utica locations once the Lyons and Mt. Morris locations have closed.