#United States #Mercy Health #St. Louis, Missouri #Humana Inc #Prime+ Clinics

Mercy and Humana Collaborate for Senior Health Improvement in Missouri

In a strategic move to enhance healthcare accessibility for older Americans, Mercy and Humana have unveiled plans to establish 65 Prime+ clinics across Missouri. These clinics aim to provide tailored primary care for individuals aged 65 and above, significantly addressing the healthcare needs of this growing demographic.

A Growing Need for Specialized Care

According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of adults aged 65 and older has seen a substantial increase, rising more than a third over the past decade. Recognizing this trend, Mercy previously launched its Prime+ clinics in 2023, beginning with a facility in Joplin, Missouri. Following the partnership with Humana, the initiative is set to expand, with two of the first clinics already up and running in the Ozarks – one in Springfield and another in Nixa, which opened on June 12, 2025.

The unique structure of these clinics is designed to create a supportive environment where seniors can receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific health requirements. Mercy aims for these clinical spaces not just to be medical facilities but holistic community centers that foster interaction and engagement among patients.

A Holistic Approach to Senior Health

Steve Mackin, president and CEO of Mercy, emphasizes the clinic's goal: "Our vision is for these clinics to become mini community centers where patients can consult with their doctors, gain information about Medicare, engage in activities, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee with friends. At Mercy, we believe in caring for the entire patient rather than just addressing individual symptoms."

The Prime+ clinics will enhance the patient experience by offering:

• - Extended appointment times ensuring that patients receive the attention they need for thorough consultations.
• - More frequent visits tailored for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
• - Regularly scheduled appointments, allowing follow-ups within a week for ongoing issues.
• - Same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns or unexpected health issues.
• - Access to a community room for educational seminars, fitness classes, and other resources.

Mackin stated, "Knowing our goal was to provide care for as many patients as possible, we collaborated with Humana to innovate and create a delivery system that best serves our patient population."

Expanding the Reach

The ambitious plan aims to attract around 2,000 new patients per clinic, making healthcare more navigable and comprehensive for seniors in Missouri. The clinics will accept most Medicare Advantage plans and Original Medicare, thus ensuring greater accessibility for the elderly.

In addition to Missouri, Mercy and Humana's discussions suggest potential expansions into surrounding states such as Arkansas and Oklahoma, further solidifying their commitment to enhancing senior health care throughout the region. Mercy’s integrated health system, one of the largest in the United States, boasts over 50 acute care facilities and specializes in holistic care.

By collaborating, Mercy and Humana are setting a new benchmark in healthcare for older adults, focusing on their unique needs and promoting a healthier, more engaged elderly population. As they continue this vital work, millions of seniors may soon see a brighter, more supportive path to managing their health.

About Mercy and Humana

Mercy is recognized nationally for its exceptional patient experiences, offering a comprehensive range of services and support within its extensive network. With an emphasis on quality care and community outreach, Mercy serves patients across multiple states, committing significant resources to improve public health and wellness.

Humana, renowned for advocating health-first solutions, strives to enhance the quality of life for diverse populations, particularly focusing on those enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid. Through innovative healthcare services, Humana aims to deliver optimal support that transforms the lives of individuals and their families.

This collaboration between Mercy and Humana marks a significant step towards ensuring that seniors have the resources and care they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives in their communities.