NORWICH – Facing tremendous state and federal funding cuts and a $5 million gap between revenues and expenditures, United Health Services (UHS) Chenango Memorial Hospital announced Monday that on Jan. 1, it will close the doors of its walk-in center.

The UHS Walk-In Center, located at 4 Newton Ave. in Norwich, has been a place to turn for immediate medical attention for people who can’t schedule an appointment with a primary care provider. Anyone in need of medical attention for urgent medical needs will be directed to the emergency room at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, adjacent to the walk-in clinic. Anyone with less urgent needs such as aches, coughs, colds, minor burns and cuts, nausea, rashes, sore throat and sprains can call the UHS primary care office, where same-day appointments are available.

“This change is in response to state and federal budget cuts,” stated UHS President and CEO Dr. Drake Lamen. “We made this decision after weighing many options. Instead of cutting other services, positions, benefits or salaries, we have chosen to re-direct patients to the appropriate site for services already in place.”