John J. Pershing VA Medical Center opens new urgent care

The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center announces its new urgent care facility is now open.

The clinic has moved from the north side of the facility to its new location on the south side of the building.

“We anticipate very positive responses from our veterans with the completion of this project,” said Drew A. DeWitt, Medical Center director, speaking of the hospital’s first clinical addition since the building was completed in 1950.

“Our previous urgent care was approximately 1,000 square feet and was basically just three beds separated by curtains in a very crowded space. Privacy was limited, and the situation was not adequate for our veterans. This new 10,000 square feet space will provide five exam rooms, a decontamination area, a procedure room, a dedicated women’s exam room, a mental health crisis room, and more.”

DeWitt added that the MRI and associated waiting room have also been moved to the south side of the building. “This will be easier for patients who need those services,” he said. “Prior to this change, check-in was on the second floor, while the MRI was on the first floor. Now they can check in and wait to be called in the same location.”

“We are also very glad to reopen some parking spaces that were closed during the construction,” he added. “Unfortunately, parking at the facility has been limited while the addition was completed.”

“This year has been one of progress and modernization at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center,” DeWitt said. “In addition to the new urgent care, we expanded our lobby to provide better space for Veterans (just in time for COVID distancing requirements) and completed the new education building to our staff keep their skills razor-sharp.”

DeWitt concluded with a message for all area veterans. “If you are eligible for VA services and you have not yet enrolled,” he said, “now is the time to change that for the better. We are focused on providing the very best care for our veterans,” he said, “and modernizing our facilities is part of that experience.”

Veterans who want to enroll for VA health care services may call the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center at 573-778-4195, extension 52177.