(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners learned during their December 20 meeting that Community Medical Center in Falls City will discontinue providing Inmate Health Services for Richardson County as of February 1, 2023.

In a letter to Sheriff Rick Hardesty, the hospital said “due to the consistent increase in inmate census significantly impacting the hospitals time commitment with nursing staff” they will be terminating the contract.

The hospital will continue to provide Emergency Department Services, but noted the pricing for those services will be reviewed after the first of the year and may need to be adjusted due to price increases.

Sheriff Hardesty told Commissioners that his office will pursue other avenues for inmate care.