High Plains Adult Health Center Opens in Lamar

“Busy Month for High Plains Community Health Center”

A ribbon cutting for the grand opening of the Adult Center/Chronic Care facility on Friday, August 12; the start of the Get Lean Lamar weight loss program on Thursday the 11th, a blood drive on Monday and the 16th anniversary celebrations of HPCHC on Monday, August 1…all part of the observance of National Health Center Week at High Plains Community Health Center.

Jay Brooke, director of the High Plains Clinic, along with assorted staff members, played host to the community this past Friday, showing off the brand new 5,000 square foot Adult Health Center, south of the Dental Clinic. The opening had been delayed for several months, due to some federal red tape issues that were eventually resolved. Brooke said from 9 to 12 employees will staff the new facility which will provide care for approximately 1,000 high blood pressure patients and 500 who have diabetes, both chronic health care issues. Brooke said the new facility’s mission is to, “make the patients well and make them better.” He said various education classes are being set up which will offer information on healthier lifestyle choices and health coaches will also work with the clinic’s patients.

The new building is modeled in the fashion of an upscale business office, featuring darker colored rugs and textured wall and subdued lighting. Brooke said the quieter, slower paced facility is designed with adults in mind, as the services will not primarily be geared to children. The transfer of patients under the care of Dr. Margaret Loewen has already begun and additional patients will be added as plans call for additional staff. Brooke said both clinics make use of a computer system that facilitates the access to a patient’s medical information.

The Colorado Community Health Network provides a 2011 rundown of the economic impact health care centers offer to the state. On the average, clinics provide care for 1 in 10 residents and comprehensive primary health care at 131 CHC sites in 34 counties in Colorado. Of that number, 10 sites are located on the Southeast Plains, caring for 14,558 patients. Those clinics account for 193 full-time jobs and generate over $10 million in economic impact for their area each year.

By Russ Baldwin