State employees enrolled in the Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan (MCHCP) will have access to a convenient health-care clinic located on the fourth floor of the Truman Building, beginning March 17.
A nurse practitioner and two medical assistants will staff the Strive for Wellness Health Center, and offer services such as wellness exams, treatment for common injuries and illnesses, vaccinations and lab services.
"We want to ensure that all Missourians have access to quality, affordable health coverage, and that includes our state employees," said Gov. Jay Nixon at a Monday dedication of the clinic. "This health center will provide better outcomes for patients and better returns for Missouri taxpayers by keeping our state employees' overall health-care costs in check, while keeping state services running effectively and efficiently, each and every day."
Judith Muck, executive director of MCHCP, said MCHCP acknowledges that members' time is valuable and their days are hectic.
"The Strive for Wellness Health Center can save enrolled state employees time and money by bringing health care right to where they work," she said.
The health center is operated through a contract between MCHCP and Cerner Corporation. The state expects a cumulative five-year return on investment of nearly $5 million.
The Office of Administration's Facilities Management, Design and Construction Division managed the construction of the health center and contracted with River City Construction to
complete the build. Construction began in October 2013 and was completed in January.
Muck told the News Tribune in February that the overall project cost nearly $200,000 - which includes the cost of medical furniture.
The health center opens March 17. Patients can access their health information, schedule appointments, print a reserved parking pass and request prescription refills through an online MCHCP portal.
Madonna Ferris, nurse practitioner at the health center, said the new clinic is a pilot program.
"Our intent and motivation is that this will be a success," she said. "We'll then extend it across the state."