by: Janeth Vazquez
Southwest Medical Center (SWMC) announces the closure of its Sleep Lab services, effective January 2026. This decision was made after careful consideration of multiple factors, including ongoing staffing challenges and economic sustainability.
Like many healthcare facilities nationwide, Southwest Medical Center has faced significant difficulty recruiting and retaining qualified sleep technologists. Despite continued efforts, the Sleep Lab was unable to maintain adequate personnel levels to operate consistently and safely.
In addition to staffing shortages, the Sleep Lab faced financial challenges. Due to low utilization and reimbursement limitations, the service was not operating at a profit and was no longer financially sustainable for the organization.
“This was not an easy decision,” said Mark Cowan, Chief Operating Officer. “Our priority is always to provide safe, high-quality care while being responsible stewards of our resources. Unfortunately, the combination of workforce shortages and economic factors made it impossible to continue Sleep Lab operations.”
Southwest Medical Center remains committed to the health and well-being of the community. Patients currently receiving sleep-related care will be assisted with referrals to alternative providers to ensure continuity of care.
SWMC will continue to evaluate services and opportunities that best meet the needs of the community while maintaining high standards of care.
For additional information or referral assistance, please contact Cardiopulmonary Director Audrey Rayas or Chief Operating Officer Mark Cowan at 620-624-1651.
