KishHealth System and NIU announced Tuesday a joint-venture concerning health services to be provided at the Community Cares Clinic, which is located in NIU’s Family Health, Wellness and Literacy Center, 3100 Sycamore Road.

The purpose of the collaboration is to provide primary care services for area residents with and without health care.

The ability to provide care for those without health care or relying on Medicaid will not affect the quality of the facility.

“This space is top-notch,” said Joseph Gant, vice president of operations at Kishwaukee Health Center.

The collaboration also had a third important individual involved.

State Rep. Bob Pritchard (R-Hinckley) has been deeply involved despite holdups that occurred in Springfield.

“When I saw a problem created in this community I wanted to see what can be done,” Pritchard said. “This community is blessed to have creative people who can find the resources to help.”

Often when funds are promised for programs, they are done so with a delayed payment method.
“We all know the unpredictably of Springfield,” Pritchard said. “By using the delayed payment program, health care suffered.”

The ongoing debate of universal health care is important to many health care clinics concerning if they are able to stay open. The outcome should not affect the Community Cares Clinic.
“If universal health care is passed, this center will not go away,” said Kevin Poorten, KishHealth System president and CEO.

The availability of a clinic that is able to provide primary care to individuals and families is a major need in the county.

County residents recognize the need for a clinic that can provide primary care.

“I can relax more knowing the clinic is here to help me and other families,” said Theresa Mullis, a patient and mother of four.

The joint-venture is also beneficial to those in the nursing program at NIU as well.

“The clinical and practical benefits for our nurses and others can’t be stated enough,” NIU President John Peters said.

The costs for someone without insurance is $20 to $75 for an office visit based on 2009 federal poverty guidelines. Vaccines for those without insurance or with Medicaid are $10 regardless of income. Labs and procedures are also available on a sliding fee scale and start at $5.

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