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After a comprehensive review of its operations, Mizell Memorial Hospital’s Board of Directors and officers have made the difficult decision to discontinue its orthopedic surgical services, effective June 20, 2025.

This move is part of a broader cost-reduction initiative known as “Operation Mission Mizell,” aimed at decreasing the hospital’s expenses by $2.4 million annually. Operations that will cease are the orthopedic surgical service line, which includes all orthopedic surgeries.

The hospital’s financial review highlighted that while orthopedic services were an important part of patient care, the department faced a net loss exceeding $250,000 in the past year. With rural hospitals grappling with rising operational costs and limited reimbursements, Mizell Memorial Hospital is focusing its resources on services that are both essential and financially sustainable to ensure continued high-quality care for the community.

“Our priority remains the well-being of our patients and the continued strength of our hospital,” said Interim Chief Executive Officer Dr. Lori L. Stanfield. “This decision was not made lightly, but it is necessary for us to protect the long-term viability of Mizell Memorial and ensure that we can continue to serve the Opp community effectively. As a key employer in the region, we are committed to being a pillar of support for the local economy and a reliable provider of essential healthcare.”

Mizell Memorial Hospital has proudly served the Opp community for over 75 years, and the leadership team remains dedicated to adapting to the evolving healthcare landscape. As part of this strategy, the hospital will continue to offer a wide range of services and remains focused on providing high-quality care while safeguarding its future.

“We continue to offer other surgery lines such as general surgery, ophthalmologic surgery, and podiatric surgery. If orthopedic patients present to the emergency room or clinics in the hospital and need care that family providers or ER providers cannot provide, they will be referred to neighboring facilities that provide orthopedic care,” Stanfield added.

For more information call 334-493-3541.