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Optum Shuts Multiple Medical Offices in Northern Ocean County, NJ

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, November 7th 2025 at 4:58 GMT by Patch
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Optum to Shut Multiple Medical Offices in Northern Ocean County, NJ

In a move that has sent ripples through the healthcare community in northern Ocean County, Optum— a division of UnitedHealth Group— announced the closure of several of its outpatient clinics in the Toms River area and surrounding towns. The decision, which takes effect early next year, will shutter four primary care sites, including the Optum Health Center in Toms River, the Optum Clinic in Brick, and two satellite locations in Lakewood and Seaside Heights. The company cited a strategic realignment of its services and a shift toward telehealth and integrated care models as key reasons for the shutdown.

The Impact on Patients and Providers

Optum’s announcement came with an assurance that patient care would continue uninterrupted. “We are committed to ensuring that all patients receive uninterrupted care during this transition,” the company stated in a press release. The release outlined a plan to transfer patients to other Optum facilities and partnered community hospitals within the region. For residents in Toms River and the surrounding towns, this means appointments may be scheduled at the newly established Optum Health Center in Brick or at the local Red Bank Hospital’s outpatient department.

The closure will also affect roughly 120 employees who work at the four clinics. Optum confirmed it will provide a severance package that includes health insurance coverage for up to 12 weeks and outplacement assistance. According to an employee spokesperson, the company is offering counseling services to help staff navigate the transition. Many of the displaced workers are local doctors, nurses, and administrative staff who have served the community for years.

Local Reactions

Mayor John M. Dugan of Toms River, who has previously partnered with Optum on several community health initiatives, expressed concern over the loss of accessible medical services. “While we understand the company’s business decisions, the impact on our residents—particularly seniors and low‑income families—cannot be understated,” he said. The mayor’s office has called on Optum to consider a phased approach that allows for gradual handover of services.

The New Jersey Department of Health also weighed in, noting that the state will monitor the situation closely. “We are working with Optum to ensure that all patients maintain access to primary care,” a spokesperson for the department told reporters. The department has pledged to investigate whether additional public clinics or private partnerships can fill the void left by the closures.

Industry Context

Optum’s shutdown is part of a broader trend of consolidation in the healthcare industry. UnitedHealth Group has been realigning its portfolio in the past year, focusing on high‑margin digital health solutions and strategic acquisitions. Analysts suggest that Optum’s shift away from standalone clinics may be driven by the rise of telehealth services, which have gained popularity during the pandemic and continue to be a cost‑effective alternative for routine care.

“We’re seeing a transformation in how patients seek care, especially in suburban and rural areas,” said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a health policy analyst at Rutgers University. “The closure of these clinics might accelerate the adoption of virtual visits and community health hubs.”

What Happens Next?

Optum has set a timeline for the closure: the Toms River and Brick clinics will cease operations by February 28, while the Lakewood and Seaside Heights sites will shut down by March 31. In the interim, the company plans to keep the facilities open to ease the transition, allowing patients to finish ongoing treatments and secure referrals. Patients are encouraged to contact the Optum patient portal or call the main switchboard for guidance on where to receive their care moving forward.

The company has also pledged to maintain its presence in the region through its “Optum Live” initiative, which aims to provide digital health solutions to underserved populations. Local media outlets have reported that Optum will be investing in a new telehealth platform that will allow patients in Ocean County to connect with specialists in major New York City hospitals.

Community Response and Next Steps

Community organizations, including the Ocean County Health Coalition, are already mobilizing to fill gaps. The coalition’s director, Lisa Nguyen, said, “We are collaborating with the Department of Health and private providers to ensure that no patient is left without primary care access.” The coalition plans to explore the possibility of converting one of the vacant clinic spaces into a community health center run by a local nonprofit.

Residents have expressed mixed feelings. While some appreciate the convenience of telehealth, others worry about losing the personal touch of in‑person visits. “My grandmother relies on the clinic for routine check‑ups,” said 68‑year‑old Toms River resident Carla Ruiz. “It’s hard to imagine doing that over a screen.”

Conclusion

Optum’s decision to close its northern Ocean County offices marks a significant shift in the local healthcare landscape. While the company emphasizes continuity of care and the benefits of digital health, the closure underscores the challenges of balancing corporate strategy with community needs. As the transition unfolds, stakeholders—including patients, providers, and local officials—will be closely watching to see whether the move can successfully meet the region’s health demands without compromising accessibility and quality.