A new clinic operated by the Veterans Health Administration will officially open its doors in West Plains, Missouri, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for March 13, 2024. The event will take place at noon at 1418 Doctors Drive, within the Howell Valley Medical Complex. This new facility, spanning nearly 20,000 square feet, represents a significant upgrade from the current location on Route K.
During the ceremony, Kevin Bass, the medical center director, expressed his commitment to veteran care. “As an Army veteran who uses VA health care myself, I am deeply committed to the well-being of veterans in the West Plains area,” he stated. He emphasized the excitement surrounding the transition to the new facility, which will provide enhanced healthcare services to local veterans.
Staff will begin relocating to the new clinic on March 16-17. During this transition, veterans requiring medical assistance can contact the VA’s Tele-Emergency Care number at 888-557-8262 and select option 3 for support, available 24 hours a day. Appointments scheduled for March 18 and beyond will take place at the new location.
The new clinic will be approximately 85% larger than the existing facility, according to Libby Johnson, Associate Director of the clinic. She noted that the increased space will facilitate improved patient flow and care efficiency. “Our healthcare teams will be co-located for increased communication and efficiency,” Johnson said.
Modern technology will be a key feature of the new facility. Johnson highlighted the introduction of a new X-ray machine, alongside advancements in telehealth services including tele-dermatology, tele-audiology, and tele-spirometry. New laboratory equipment will allow for on-site point-of-care testing, enhancing the overall patient experience.
An essential focus for the VA is expanding specialty care options for rural veterans. Johnson announced that the new clinic will introduce enhanced chiropractic services and a fully equipped physical therapy gym. Additionally, the clinic will launch a new service called Cardio Vet, designed to provide comprehensive heart care, including screenings, EKGs, echocardiograms, consultations, and medication management. This initiative aims to reduce unnecessary travel for veterans seeking specialized care.
Johnson also mentioned the potential for further expanding specialty services in the future. “We’ll also have space to offer additional specialties in the future,” she said, encouraging new veterans to enroll in VA healthcare programs to support continued growth in service offerings.
As the new facility prepares to welcome patients, the community anticipates a positive impact on veteran healthcare in the West Plains area, reinforcing the VA’s commitment to providing exceptional care to those who have served.
