Kagman, Tinian clinics not closing despite rumors

The head of Isla Community Health is pushing back against talk that its clinics are shutting down, saying operations on Saipan and Tinian remain intact despite temporary adjustments to hours.

CEO Cindy P. Hoepner said there are no plans to close the Kagman clinic or its satellite sites.

“No. We have no plans to close any of our clinics,” Hoepner said. “Kagman Community Health Center, along with our other clinics in Tinian and San Antonio, remains open and fully operational.”

Hoepner stressed that as a federally qualified health center, Isla Community Health continues to meet federal program requirements and obligations.

“Our clinics remain committed to providing accessible, comprehensive primary care services to the residents of Saipan, Tinian, and surrounding communities,” she said.

Her remarks come after concerns were raised during a March 3 meeting of the CNMI Senate Standing Committee on Health, Welfare and Programs, chaired by Sen. Paul A. Manglona.

Manglona said he heard reports that Kagman Health Clinic “might be preparing to close its operation because of the loss of some grant, $1.9 million grant.” He described the possibility as “somewhat concerning,” noting the clinic serves residents on the eastern side of Saipan as well as Tinian and San Antonio.

“We need to discuss this further and maybe hear them out,” Manglona said, adding that the committee may also need to meet with Medicaid officials to address matching concerns.

Hoepner acknowledged that clinic hours have been reduced, with some sites operating three days a week, but emphasized that the changes are temporary.

“Based on several factors currently affecting healthcare operations, we have implemented temporary adjustments to clinic hours to help stabilize the organization and better align our services with current operational and financial realities,” she said.

She described the move as a strategic step to ensure responsible operations while maintaining quality and access to care.

“These adjustments are strategic and temporary measures, designed to ensure that we continue to operate responsibly while maintaining the quality and availability of care for our patients,” Hoepner said. “Importantly, these changes do not indicate any plans to close.”

Hoepner added that healthcare providers nationwide are grappling with reimbursement delays and broader financial pressures, and that Isla Community Health is closely monitoring patient demand and fiscal conditions.

“Our goal is to ensure that Isla Community Health remains stable, responsive, and positioned for long-term service to the community,” she said, noting that clinic hours will be reassessed as circumstances improve or community needs shift.

Hoepner also addressed what she described as misinformation circulating in the community.

“When information circulates in the community that may not be fully accurate, it can understandably create concern or uncertainty for our patients and their families,” she said. “Healthcare is deeply personal, and access to care is something our community depends on.”

At the same time, she expressed appreciation for residents who sought clarification.

“I am grateful for the awareness and concern that people have shown. It is truly heartwarming to see how much our community cares about Isla Community Health and the services we provide,” Hoepner said.

She reiterated that the clinics remain open and committed to serving Saipan and Tinian.

“The temporary adjustments we have made are intended to help us responsibly navigate current operational realities so that we can move forward stronger, more resilient, and better positioned to meet the long-term healthcare needs of our community,” Hoepner said.

“As CEO of Isla Community Health, my priority is ensuring the sustainability and continued growth of services for the people of the CNMI,” she added. “Our community’s trust means everything to us. Isla Community Health is here, our clinics are open, and we remain deeply committed to caring for our people today and for many years to come.”