SHELLMAN, Ga. (WALB) — [UPDATE: April 30 at 3:15 p.m.:] Shellman Medical posted an update to their Facebook page at about 1:30 p.m. on April 30 saying that the facility will remain open.

This comes shortly after officials announced that the center would be shutting down. Officials encouraged the public to disregard a previous announcement saying that the center was closing.

It is now unclear whether the facility will stay open long-term.

WALB will continue to provide updates as we learn more.

[ORIGINAL ARTICLE:] A South Georgia community is preparing for a major loss as its only medical care facility, Shellman Medical, announces plans to shut down operations.

In a Facebook post, the clinic said it is “winding down operations effective immediately,” marking the end of local healthcare access for many residents in the county.

Although services are ending, the clinic says staff will remain available through May 28 excluding Memorial Day to assist patients with the transition. That includes helping with prescription refills, transferring medical records, and providing referrals to other providers.

Patients trying to reach the office are encouraged to leave a message if their call is not answered, as staff continue working through the closure process.

The shutdown raises concerns for residents who rely on the clinic for routine care, prescriptions, and ongoing medical needs, especially in a rural area where nearby healthcare options may be limited.

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