CEO discusses financial justification for OB unit closure and future initiatives for Camden healthcare
After hearing from local healthcare providers that the OB unit at Ouachita County Medical Center in Camden would be shutting down, the community expressed significant concerns. Glenda Taylor, the hospital’s CEO, shared insights with Channel 7 News, shedding light on the decision to close the unit. Despite the nurses having only a week’s notice about the change, Taylor explained that the closure had been on the table since her arrival in August. She emphasized that despite her efforts to sustain the unit, the hospital simply lacked the necessary numbers to justify its continuation.
On January 10th, the OB unit ceased operations, leaving the county without a dedicated OB unit. This closure means that expectant mothers in Camden and nearby areas will now have to travel to El Dorado, a facility less than 40 minutes away, for OB services. In emergencies, the hospital is prepared to handle imminent deliveries, albeit not in the most ideal setting. Taylor mentioned that two experienced OB nurses will be available in the ER to manage urgent cases, ensuring that patients receive critical care before being transferred or discharged.
Financial challenges played a significant role in the closure of the OB unit, with Taylor revealing that the hospital had been losing over $50,000 per month. In 2025, only 119 deliveries were conducted, a number deemed insufficient to sustain the OB unit despite increased Medicaid payments for deliveries. Taylor remains optimistic about the hospital’s future, expressing hope for financial relief through programs like the Rural Health Transformation Program, which could bring around $4 million to the facility.
Although the community has expressed safety concerns following the closure, Taylor reassured the public that outpatient and inpatient care would continue to meet the same standards as before. Despite past hardships, she affirmed that patients at Ouachita County Medical Center have consistently received quality care. Notably, the hospital had also made difficult decisions driven by financial considerations, including the closure of its intensive care unit (ICU).
Regarding the hospital’s future independence, Taylor was uncertain about whether it would remain independent or be acquired by another entity. However, she made a firm commitment that the city of Camden would continue to have access to healthcare services, regardless of the hospital’s status. Amidst ongoing changes and challenges, Taylor’s focus remains on maintaining quality care for the community, even as the hospital navigates financial uncertainties and transitions.