
In a blow to Brooklyn's healthcare landscape, Public Health Solutions (PHS), announced they are shuttering two of their Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Centers in Fort Greene and Brownsville. The phased closure is set to be complete by April 6. These centers are known for their comprehensive services, providing birth control, prenatal care, STI testing, and abortion among other services.
The decision to close these healthcare facilities comes amidst an array of financial hardships for the nonprofit. Despite pulling in $321 million in revenue last year, and holding city contracts valued up to $1.3 billion, Public Health Solutions is buckling under rising costs, a shortfall in funding, and a persistent decrease in patient admissions, according to a report by Crain's New York. An increase in the number of uninsured patients, since the pandemic, has also added to the strain. Admissions have dwindled from a pre-pandemic amount, with uninsured patients now making up 30% of their clientele, up from 15%.
Lisa David, the President and CEO of PHS, emphasized the difficulty of the decision. "Our Brooklyn SRH Centers have been a cornerstone of care for underserved communities for decades, and this decision was not made lightly," she said in a statement obtained by Public Health Solutions' blog. David has voiced commitment to a seamless transition for both patients and staff affected by the closures.
Surging operational costs, such as those for laboratory services, medications, and equipment, combined with stagnant government funding and grants have strained the nonprofit's resources. Efforts by Public Health Solutions to advocate for sustainable solutions and funding have not met with success. Moreover, operational efficiencies have been hampered by small-scale service delivery and an inability to achieve economies of scale, as well as a gap in leadership marked by the absence of a medical director since March 2024.
In anticipation of the closures, a community town hall will be hosted by PHS at the Ingersoll Community Center in Downtown Brooklyn on January 22. The meeting aims to discuss the rationale behind the closures and assist with the transition plans for patients and staff. When it comes to patient care, alternative service providers will be listed and aid will be provided for secure access to medical records. As for the staff, PHS plans to offer support through professional development opportunities, resume reviews, and a job fair intended to redirect employees within the organization or into the broader healthcare field.