DE QUEEN HOSPITAL LOSES 16 EMPLOYEES,

A change in operations at the hospital in De Queen, Ark., resulted in 16 employees resigning Wednesday.

The new owners of De Queen Medical Center are moving the hospital's administration, payroll services and human resources to a centralized corporate office that manages other hospitals, said Jerramy Icenhower, who resigned after serving nearly six years as administrator.

“We didn't resign in protest. It was an applicable agreement for both sides. Anytime a new company comes in, it's part of the process. There is nothing negative on either side,” said Jerramy Icenhower, who resigned after nearly six years as administrator.

“There will be rumors and some disgruntled people. We had many people to text and called in support. We got a lot of positive feedback,” he said.

KDQN radio station reportedly received messages asking about the 16 employees who resigned. The station also received questions about the police being asked to check the hospital.

A statement from De Queen Police Department said officers were asked to be present in the building. However, officers did not have any contact with the former employees.

Police Chief Scott Simmons also reported there is no investigation involving any current or former employees of the hospital.

The media relations employee was unavailable for comment regarding the changes.

“I've enjoyed the people and working for the community. I wish the new owners, nothing but the best,” Icenhower said.