Singing River Hospital in Gulfport is suspending their labor and delivery department

This story was originally published by our media partners at WXXV-TV.

Singing River Gulfport announced today that effective April 1, the hospital is closing its obstetrics department — including labor and delivery.

Employees were given a 30-day notice of the closure.

The decision stemmed from a lack of provider coverage and Singing River Heath System said it hoped the closure would be temporary.

“Like many health systems across the nation, we currently face a shortage of OB physicians,” SRHS said in a statement. “While the decision to suspend services was not something we wanted to do, we are hopeful it is only temporary and that we can reinstate services in the near future.”

According to the hospital, no employees have been impacted by the decision. Those working in the department will either remain on staff or have the option to transfer to another hospital within the system.

“We will continue to search for long-term solutions to bring back OB services to Singing River Gulfport and our community … We are committed to ensuring our patients receive the best care possible now and in the future to ensure we can continue providing access to high-quality, comprehensive care in our communities.”

SRHS is for sale and the proposal for deadlines is March 10.

Sun Herald reporters Scott Watkins and Mary Perez contributed to this report.

This story was originally published March 2, 2023 at 1:34 PM.