A grand opening will be held Tuesday for a new women's health clinic at John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
The 1,400-square-foot clinic space is important to the delivery of comprehensive care for veterans, said Dr. Patricia Hall, medical center director.
In the Poplar Bluff area, there is a larger percentage of women veterans who are eligible but not enrolled in VA healthcare than their male counterparts, Hall said.
"It is our hope that offering a uniquely female experience for their healthcare needs will encourage women veterans to enroll and give us the opportunity to be the healthcare system they choose and trust," she said.
The clinic also offers an alternative for women who have had experiences that make it uncomfortable to seek healthcare in a co-ed environment, Hall said.
"For example, national data reveals that about 1 in 4 women state they have experienced military sexual trauma in their past," she explained.
The repurposed clinic space includes three exam spaces, two with attached bathrooms; two offices; and a private waiting space.
The event will begin with a ribbon cutting at 3 p.m. on the first floor of the VA. Tours and other activities will be held until 6 p.m. The following presentations are scheduled: 4 p.m., pet therapy; 4:30 p.m., Mindfulness; 5 p.m., paraffin hands; and 5:30 p.m., osteoporosis.
"We want our women veterans to know how very welcome they are in the medical center, and that we have special services just for them," Hall said.