University of Iowa Health Care is opening a new primary care location near Riverside. The new clinic, UI Health Care—River Crossing will open Monday, March 15. David Bedell, MD, a family medicine physician and medical director of UI Health Care—River Crossing, talks about the new primary care facility:
Why was the clinic moved from Lone Tree to its new location?
There were several reasons. One is that the old facility was built in the '50s and the rooms are too small and we just don't have enough space. The other issue is that demographically, we feel Riverside serves a bigger population and it will provide improved access to an increased number of services.
Where is the new clinic located?
It's located at the southeast corner of highways 218 and 22 between Riverside and the casino. The actual address is 3056 River Crossing.
What are some of the changes at the new location?
We'll have additional lab equipment for faster testing. We can do more there as opposed to having to send it out. We have radiology equipment onsite so we can respond immediately, as opposed to sending somebody away. The x-rays will be read a University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. We have a more comfortable waiting room with an area for the children to play.
Will there be any new services, in addition to primary care?
- A full-service pharmacy that will be open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., which will have drive through service.
- Over-the-counter medications and some Hawk Shop items will be available as well.
- Two days a week we have an optical shop where people can see an optometrist and shop for glasses and contact lenses.
Will the providers who have worked in Lone Tree still be seeing patients at River Crossing?
Yes, we'll have the same providers as at Lone Tree.
Do you offer extended hours?
Yes, we're open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. We're open until 7 at night, five days a week.
Why is it important for everyone to have a primary care provider that they see on a regular basis?
I think there's a lot of health statistics that show people who have somebody helping coordinate their care end up getting better services and it improves the health of the community. I think it also gives a central place for their records so that when they need to see a specialist, they know where to get information about the patient.
Will there be a chance for the community to tour the new location and meet the providers?
Yes, we're going to have an open house Saturday, April 24 from 1-3 p.m. |
