Editor’s note: To read about the Hatteras Village Medical Center closing, click here.
October 9, 2017
To Hatteras Island:
The Board of Directors of Hatteras Village Medical Center decided to close the facility. It is with heavy heart that I must tell you that I will not be able to continue to be your medical provider after Nov. 9, 2017, due to the Board’s decision.

After Oct. 9, 2017, I will not be accepting new patients or treating any new patients, and will not be providing urgent, or emergency care, for existing patients of Hatteras Village Medical Center. I will, however, continue to provide appropriate medication renewals, referrals and test results for existing patients with medical needs until Nov. 9, 2017.
As the practice closes, I will be available to help ease your transition to your new health care provider of your choice. Please leave messages, questions, or concerns on the practice answer machine 252-986–2756 as directed by that message. You may also wish to obtain a copy of your health records. Please read the Notice from Hatteras Village Medical Center for directions regarding that process, as published in The Island Free Press and posted on the practice door.
If for some reason you are not contacted after leaving a message on the practice answering machine and need to reach me regarding your existing medical problems or medications, please call 252-996-0511. I will return your call within 48 to 72 hours. Remember, this phone number is not an emergency line.
I want each of you to know it has been an honor and a privilege to provide medical care in your community. Over the past 3.5 years, I have come to know each of you and value your time and caring. Thank you to the many who have made this journey possible–patients, staff, family members, businesses, financial contributors, visitors, Ferry Division, Coast Guard and friends. Your support has been endless.
While this experience is at an end, my future plans for providing medical care are still undecided. Contrary to rumor, I am not planning retirement–too many options exist. I will miss Hatteras Village Medical Center greatly, and hope to see many of you in the future as I will continue to live on Ocracoke.
Sincerely,
Gail L Covington, FNP