Citing reduced reimbursement from commercial insurance and federally funded health programs, East Texas Medical Center has announced they’re pulling out of operations of three First Physician clinics in Center, effective Aug. 15.

According to senior vice president, ETMC affiliate operations Perry Henderson, “ETMC is proud to have played a role in supporting physicians in Shelby County and keeping healthcare readily available to area residents for the past five years.” However, Henderson said, “unfortunately, it no longer makes economic sense for ETMC to continue clinic operations in Center.”

Approximately 20 employees, including physicians and mid-level providers will be affected by the changes in ETMC’s affiliation. They include Dr. Jane Todd, Dr. Craig McMullen and Dr. Chandra offices.

Henderson said Shelby County has a strong, growing base of medical providers and services. “We believe Shelby County providers are at a point where they can continue to serve the community, either independently or by affiliating with another medical group.

Patients of Drs. McMullen, Todd and Chandra will be notified by mail in the coming weeks of their future plans.