The University of Minnesota Boynton Health Dental Clinic in Minneapolis has closed suddenly after more than a century of operation, The Minnesota Star Tribune reported March 11.
The university confirmed to the Star Tribune that the clinic closed over financial reasons, adding that the clinic had been running on a budget deficit for several years and that the budget had been subsidized by the Boynton Health medical clinic. The clinic also needed several capital investments, according to a university spokesperson.
The university said on its website that it would transition services to its faculty dental clinic, which is also in Minneapolis. The school provided a number for patients to call for an appointment, noting that call volume is “currently high.”
Employees reportedly learned the clinic would be closed temporarily Feb. 16 and were put on administrative leave. They were made aware March 5 that the closure would be permanent, according to Max Vast, president of AFSCME 3800, a union that represents university employees.
Mr. Vast said he has “deep concerns” about the clinic’s closure. The university reportedly stated two weeks ago that no layoffs were planned, but then shared earlier this month that staff members may be laid off. Mr. Vast also said employees have been given several reasons for the clinic’s closure.
The union plans to hold a news conference March 11 to urge the university to keep the clinic open. A petition to keep the clinic open was also created.
