ROCHESTER, Minn. — Mayo Clinic Health System (MCHS) will close six of its southern Minnesota clinics in a few months and reduce services at another location, as part of its "ongoing efforts to strengthen rural healthcare delivery," according to a news release.

The affected clinics are located in Belle Plaine, Caledonia, Montgomery, Northridge (North Mankato), St. Peter and Wells. The closures are expected to take place by Dec. 10.

In addition to the six clinics closing, elective procedures in ophthalmology, orthopedics/podiatry, endoscopy and gynecology currently performed in Albert Lea will be moved to MCHS facilities in Austin and Waseca.

According to MCHS, the move is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of care in the region amid ongoing challenges such as staffing shor

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