Pensacola (Fla.) Naval Hospital, the oldest naval hospital in the U.S., will slowly restructure to an outpatient center. The transition will begin in July with the closure of its maternity ward, according to the Pensacola News Journal.
The decision to reorganize is a result of the declining demand for inpatient procedures and delivery services. Capt. Amy Branstetter, the hospital's commanding officer, told the Pensacola News Journal that the hospital delivers about 30 babies per month and only 20 percent of the surgeries done at the hospital require an overnight stay.
The reorganization will impact 100 positions for active duty sailors. They will be sent to other locations where their skills are needed.
Previously, the naval hospital also decided to close its emergency department, intensive care unit and residency program.