Mainline Health Systems announced today plans to assume operations of Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Healthcare System’s (SABHS) behavioral health clinics in Star City and Sheridan, ensuring continued access to essential behavioral health services as the nonprofit organization concludes an extraordinary 62 years of service to Arkansas communities.

At the same time, Arcare will assume operations of SABHS’s clinics in Stuttgart and Pine Bluff, creating a collaborative transition plan that preserves access to care for patients throughout southeast Arkansas.

Founded more than six decades ago, SABHS was Arkansas’ first community mental health center and has served generations of children, adults, and families through compassionate, community-based behavioral healthcare. While changes in the healthcare landscape have made it increasingly difficult for the organization to continue operating independently, its mission will continue through organizations committed to carrying that work forward.

“For more than 60 years, Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Healthcare has played a vital role in improving the lives of individuals and families across our region,” said G. Allan Nichols, Chief Executive Officer of Mainline Health Systems. “We are honored to continue that legacy in Star City and Sheridan and remain committed to ensuring patients have access to the high-quality,
compassionate behavioral healthcare they deserve.”

“For our Board of Directors, this decision has always been about protecting our patients, our employees, and the mission we have served for the past 62 years,” said Sherrie James, SABHS CEO. “We are grateful to have found partners who share our commitment to community-based behavioral healthcare and will continue serving the people who have trusted us for generations.”

The transition is not a traditional acquisition or purchase. As SABHS dissolves as a nonprofit organization, certain assets, including the Star City and Sheridan clinics, will become part of Mainline Health Systems, allowing services to continue without interruption.

Honoring the People Behind the Legacy
For decades, SABHS’s physicians, therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, and support staff have built trusted
relationships with patients and families throughout southeast Arkansas.