Enhancing Medicare Access: Mercy and Humana Collaboration

Collaborative Efforts for Better Primary Care Access

As the population grows older, the health care system continues to adapt to meet the needs of aging individuals. Recently, Mercy has partnered with Humana to introduce the innovative 65 Prime+ by Mercy Primary Care clinics. These clinics focus on providing a supportive environment specifically designed for patients aged 65 and older, particularly those enrolled in Medicare.

Why 65 Prime+ Clinics Are Essential

The United States Census Bureau has reported significant growth in the number of adults aged 65 and older over the past decade. In response to this trend, Mercy initiated the establishment of 65 Prime+ clinics in 2023. The first clinic opened in Joplin, and now Mercy proudly operates five facilities in Missouri, aiming to enhance care for this growing demographic.

The Expansion Plans

Partnering with Humana allows Mercy to expand the availability of these clinics across Missouri and potentially into Arkansas and Oklahoma, aiming to serve as many Medicare patients as possible. These clinics will accept various Medicare Advantage plans and Original Medicare, making health care more accessible to those in need.

Creating Community-Centric Health Care

Mercy's vision is not just to treat symptoms but to support overall well-being. Steve Mackin, Mercy’s president and CEO, expresses this commitment by stating, "Our goal is for these clinics to become mini community centers where patients can not only see their doctors but also engage in meaningful interactions and activities with others in their community." This approach ensures that each clinic is built with the patient's needs at the forefront.

Building on Existing Foundations

The first pair of collaborative clinics is set to open in Springfield and Nixa. According to Mackin, the choice of Springfield was easy: “Our caregivers have a solid track record here.” This reputation fosters trust among the community, laying a solid foundation for future clinic openings.

Humana shares this sentiment, with Jeremy Gaskill, Humana's Central Region Medicare president, highlighting their commitment to the local population. The collaboration aims to tailor a health care model that effectively meets the unique requirements of older adults in the region.

Patient Capacity and Accessibility

Each of the new 65 Prime+ clinics is designed to accommodate up to 2,000 patients. This focused approach emphasizes Mercy’s dedication to high-quality care while enabling Humana to contribute to the overall patient experience positively.

With plans for the first clinics to open in June 2025, the construction phase is expected to get underway early in the same year. Both organizations are eager to increase access to meaningful health services across Missouri.

About Mercy

Mercy is known as one of the largest health systems in the United States, dedicated to providing excellent patient care. With a commitment to a holistic approach, Mercy operates numerous facilities, offering a range of specialized services across Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. In the last fiscal year, Mercy provided significant community benefits and free care, reflecting their commitment to enhancing the health of the communities they serve.

About Humana

Humana is committed to prioritizing health for everyone, ensuring that their services efficiently cater to various demographics, including Medicare and Medicaid recipients. With a focus on improving health outcomes, Humana believes in fostering a community-centric approach that enhances the quality of life for all its members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 65 Prime+ by Mercy Primary Care clinics?

These clinics are specifically designed to cater to the Medicare population aged 65 and older, offering specialized care, education, and community support.

Where will the new clinics be located?

The first collaborative clinics will open in Springfield and Nixa, Missouri, with plans to expand further into other states.

How many patients can each clinic accommodate?

Each 65 Prime+ clinic will have the capacity to care for up to 2,000 patients.

What health plans will the clinics accept?

The clinics will accept most Medicare Advantage plans and Original Medicare, making access easier for seniors.

What is the focus of Mercy and Humana's collaboration?

The partnership aims to enhance access to primary care for older adults, providing community-based health services that address their specific needs.

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