Just shy of two and a half years since it officially launched, Community Health and Wellness Partners of Logan County is quickly becoming a go-to spot for local residents’ health care needs.
Patient Greg Portis of Urbana, right, meets with CNP Breanna Detrick to prepare for an upcoming knee surgery. A 30-plus year patient of Oakhill Medical Associates, Mr. Portis said he likes new “streamlined” services provided by Community Health and Wellness Partners since the two practices merged earlier this year. (EXAMINER PHOTOS | REUBEN MEES)
Beginning in March 2014 with about 2,500 patients from the remnants of the pre-existing Mad River Family Practice, the local community health center now accommodates approximately 10,000 patients and is a Level 3 Patient Centered Medical Home, CEO Tara Bair said.
The current staff of 43 has grown from just a single doctor, a few certified nursing practitioners and a handful of other nurses and administrators practicing in half a building to 3.5 physicians and three CNPs along with a part-time midwife, a full-time pharmacist, a dietitian and a case manager spread over two offices, located at 4879 S. U.S. Route 68, West Liberty, and the Aries Wellness Center of Indian Lake, 8200 State Route 366, Russells Point.
Its budget has grown from a $1.8 million a year operation to approximately $4.2 million, financial officer Andy Hershberger said.
In addition to primary care, Community Health and Wellness Partners offers patients access to the full spectrum of medical services, its own pathology lab and referrals to dental and behavioral health through partnerships with existing providers.
“I feel we have been pretty successful,” Mrs. Bair said, noting that much of the health center’s growth came through a merger with Oakhill Medial Associates that was completed six months ago. “The staff has gelled very well together and our services have continued to grow.
“Through rigorous efforts we have been able to maintain the PCMH certification achieved by Oakhill,” she added.
Socks stuffed with personal hygiene products are being distributed to homeless individuals, children in need and struggling families as part of the National Community Health Center Week activities.
Read complete story in Wednesday’s Examiner.
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