Palatka, FL – U.S. Rep. John L. Mica (R-Putnam County) today help dedicate the new veterans’ clinic in Putnam County that will serve an estimated 10,000 area veterans.
        “Since this project floundered, it was especially important to join with federal, state and local officials to make sure that this important VA healthcare center became a reality for our Putnam County veterans,” said Congressman Mica.  “This new facility will insure quality medical care for our veterans and will also prevent long waits and travel times for those in the region who have served our country.  Seven counties will be served by the new veterans’ clinic, taking pressure off health care facilities in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, Lake City, Ocala and Gainesville.”
        The approximately 10,000 square-foot facility, located at the Palatka Mall, began seeing patients on October 12th.  The new facility provides veterans with examinations, basic diagnostic work-up and ongoing management of their diseases, illnesses and medical conditions.  Veterans’ medical services include care for hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and mental health needs.
        “The Palatka veterans’ clinic will also be a great economic boost to the Palatka Mall by increasing customer traffic for the business center.  Another great feature of this location will be increased access to parking which will make it easier for those visiting the clinic or shopping,” continued Mica.
        During the planning stages, progress was temporarily halted due to the VA’s inability to find a suitable location for the clinic.  Rep. Mica intervened to keep the project on track by organizing local, state and federal leaders to find a location that would most efficiently serve the area’s veterans.
        Community-Based Outpatient Clinics are part of a national effort to transition the VA from a hospital-based system of care to a more efficient health care system focused on primary care.
        “The opening of this facility will continue the work to honor our commitment to veterans and have a positive effect on reducing the large numbers of patients for all neighboring VA hospitals and clinics,” concluded Rep. Mica.