WINCHESTER, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Patients receiving primary care at Winchester Family Medicine will need to transition to a new provider as Cheshire Medical Center prepares to permanently close the clinic on Nov. 6.

The Dartmouth Health affiliate announced the closure following the departure of Lisa Moulton, APRN, the practice’s only primary care provider. The decision comes amid ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining health care professionals, particularly in rural communities.

The clinic, located at 20 Warwick Road in Winchester, serves approximately 1,400 patients. Cheshire Medical Center said those affected have been notified by mail and will be assisted in transferring their care to primary care providers at its Keene locations.

Joseph Perras, MD, president and CEO of Cheshire Medical Center, said the organization considered alternatives before deciding to close the practice, citing patient safety and continuity of care as the primary considerations.

While acknowledging the difficulties patients may face when changing providers, Perras said the health system aims to make the transition as seamless as possible. He also pointed to previous transfers of Winchester patients to Keene practices, which he said have resulted in positive health outcomes and patient feedback.

The six employees working at the Winchester clinic have been offered other positions within the Dartmouth Health system, according to Cheshire Medical Center.

Perras emphasized that the closure does not reflect on the clinic’s staff and said the change will not diminish the quality or safety of care provided by the health system.