HCMC Assures Patients and Community in Light of Physician’s Arrest

Paris, TN – Henry County Medical Center is committed to the health and safety of the community and region it serves, and in light of recent events, HCMC is working to ensure that its mental health patients have the continuity of care they deserve with limited disruption in their treatment.

According to the Henry County Sheriff’s Department report, Robert Hamm, MD, Psychiatrist with Paris Mental Health Clinic and Lake Haven Behavioral Health Center, was arrested on Monday afternoon, June 5, for reckless endangerment. He was released on bond the same day.

“HCMC had decided several months ago not extend a new contract to Dr. Hamm for psychiatric services,” said Lisa Casteel, CFO at HCMC. “Administration and staff had already been planning for Dr. Hamm’s departure, so HCMC will execute the coverage plan they had been working towards for mental health service needs earlier than anticipated so that patients have the continuity of care they deserve with limited disruptions. It is unfortunate that this situation has occurred, but the safety and wellbeing of our patients is top priority, and we are moving forward with the plan.”

“HCMC is dedicated to the mental health of our community and region,” said Tom Gee, CEO at HCMC. “We want our patients and their families to know that we will be here for their needs and we have a plan to take care of them.”

Any patient who needs to be rescheduled for an appointment will be contacted by the Paris Mental Health Clinic staff. If you have questions or would like to speak to the staff at the clinic, call 731-644-8441. For more information about Lake Haven Behavioral Health Center, call 731-644-8420.

Located in Paris, TN, Henry County Medical Center is a progressive, integrated healthcare organization committed to serving the healthcare needs of Henry County and the adjoining region. Including a 142-bed hospital and other facilities, the medical center provides a variety of outpatient services, as well as inpatient care. Henry County Medical Center is a county-owned and operated nonprofit institution. For more information: www.hcmc-tn.org.