Ownership change for Fayette County health center

A healthcare facility in the Fayette County city of Connersville is under new ownership, which it says will allow the operator to focus more on low-income patients. Reid Health Primary and Specialty Care Virginia Avenue will next Monday begin operating as Fayette County Medical Center.

Reid has owned an operated the practice since July 2019. The facility will operate under the umbrella of Neighborhood Health Center, Inc, a not-for-profit corporation that operates as a Federally Qualified Health Center.

As an FQHC, the federal government provides enhanced reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid.

“The primary reason for transitioning the center is our ability as an FQHC to provide additional, essential services for members of the community that otherwise cannot afford services,” said Chief Executive Officer Carrie Miles. “Almost 10% of Fayette County residents are uninsured. We are planning to provide onsite eligibility services to help more residents obtain insurance coverage.”

Miles says the additional funding will allow FCMC to offer better access and services and to ultimately, promote better health outcomes for the community.

As an FQHC, patients are cared for regardless of ability to pay and fees are based on family size and income. The organization says 42% of Fayette County residents are at or below 200% of federal poverty limits.

“This is great news for patients served by the Fayette County Medical Center,” said Billie Kester, Reid Health Vice President Billie Kester. “From the patient perspective, this change will be seamless and increase their options for care.”

Miles says the existing providers and staff will make the transition to the new operation, which includes one physician and three nurse practitioners.