Mercy has opened a new 65 Prime Plus clinic in Hazelwood, Missouri, US, specifically designed to meet the healthcare needs of Medicare patients aged 65 and above.

This facility is the second such clinic opened by Mercy in the St Louis region and aims to offer an enhanced primary care experience.

The 65 Prime Plus clinic, named 65 Prime Plus by Mercy – North County, is situated at 637 Dunn Road Ste 102, Hazelwood.

It is expected to help with the longer appointment times and more frequent scheduling opportunities, allowing patients to have comprehensive discussions about their health with Dr Kate Richards.

Richards said: “We know those aged 65 and older have unique challenges and want to focus on those needs.

“Often there are multiple health conditions, many medications and illnesses that can look different for older patients. 65 Prime Plus is designed to meet those needs and improve the overall health care experience.”

According to Mercy, the clinic's services encompass a broad range of general medical evaluations along with wellness examinations.

It addresses conditions such as diabetes, cholesterol issues, incontinence, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and early memory loss.

Additionally, the clinic is equipped to manage minor illnesses and injuries, including sprains, strains, and fractures.

Patients at the 65 Prime Plus clinic will also have access to flu shots, other immunisations, Medicare annual wellness visits, and treatments for Parkinson's disease, osteoporosis, hypertension, and other movement disorders.

The physician's work at the new clinic is also supported by a dedicated clinical support staff, which plays a crucial role in patient care, assisting during and between clinic visits and coordinating all other aspects of the patient's healthcare.

This primarily includes arranging referrals to specialists, organising tests or procedures, managing prescriptions and medical equipment, and ensuring that all preventive care measures, such as lab tests, immunisations, and cancer screenings, are up to date.

Mercy's expansion of the 65 Prime Plus clinics, which also exist in Jefferson County and Joplin, reflects the organisation's commitment to providing tailored healthcare services to the senior population.

In June this year, Mercy commenced the construction of the Mercy Kids Therapy and Development Center in St Louis, Missouri.