Due to low reimbursement rates, Augusta-based MaineGeneral Medical Center will stop providing endocrinology services at its Diabetes and Nutrition Center April 30, reports the Bangor Daily News.
The hospital has lost approximately $500,000 annually since the hospital added endocrinology services five years ago, said MaineGeneral CEO Chuck Hays, This raised the question of if the service was financially viable.
"We know it's an important service to the community," Mr. Hays told the Bangor Daily News. "We have high levels of diabetes within our community, but both the insurance and Medicare, Medicaid just don't cover the cost."
The diabetes center, which serves about 4,000 patients, will continue offering educational programs.