CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — "This has been several years in the making..." Doctor David Fletcher said, Medical Director and Owner of SafeWorks. "Now, it's finally going to happen."
For nearly 53 years, Aunt Martha's Health and Wellness has been a federally qualified health center. Their story began in the south side of Chicago, and through the years began expanding throughout Illinois.Â
After an exciting announcement following last week's sold-out Red Hot Winter show, the non-profit shared the news that they are months away from calling Champaign it's new home.Â
The organization already has locations in Kankakee, Peoria, and Danville. Now, it's partnering with Dr. Fletcher at SafeWorks, integrating behavioral health with primary care.Â
"He's been a champion of health care for everybody," added Raul Garza, President and CEO of Aunt Martha's Health and Wellness.Â
Garza studied the data that showed the need for accessible healthcare in Champaign. "Having the combination of preventive health services, family planning services, and the mental health services together is such a great need that'll be filled here."
Garza explained how in Champaign County, as well as surrounding communities, only ten percent of people that need healthcare are able to get it. That leaves 90%, roughly 44,000 people, looking for health resources such as these.Â
"If you don't have insurance, Martha's will see you. If you have Medicaid coverage, we'll provide care for you as well..." explained Garza.
Fletcher also added that right now, many people are concerned with threatened federal budget cuts. "It's going to make the need even greater because a lot of people aren't going to have access to Medicaid," Fletcher noted.Â
The goal is to bring more widespread healthcare options to Champaign, and fast.Â
Aunt Martha's will be located off Market Street, behind Crunch Fitness, in the SafeWorks facility. Dr. Fletcher is hopeful to open the doors to patients this June.
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