Local veterans will have some adjustments to make this year as the Emporia Community-Based Outpatient Medical Clinic closes its doors. However, Veterans Affairs spokesman Joseph Burks says veterans will have the help they need to make the best choice possible for their situation.
Speaking as part of KVOE’s 8:05 am newscast Wednesday, Burks says the numbers just don’t justify the clinic staying open — or, as he put it, to be “clinically efficient.”
The Emporia office currently offers primary care, including vaccinations, telemedicine and behavioral health, for the two weekdays it is open — Wednesdays and Thursdays. It also offers lab work one day a week.
Over the weekend, KVOE News was alerted to the impending closure after local veterans contacted the station through social media. The current timetable is for the office at 919 West 12th to close in June, which Burks says is an extension from the original suggestion of next month.
Burks says this is less of a closure and more of a transition for veterans, who have some options for medical care moving forward. They can get their health care services at the Topeka VA campus or other appropriate VA medical centers. If they qualify, they can also take advantage of the VA Mission Act of 2018 to receive care through non-VA providers as part of the Community Care program.
Burks says a town hall is tentatively set for March 30 in Emporia to give veterans more information and a chance to ask questions about the upcoming changes. VA Care in Community staff have also been advised to reach out personally to all local veterans advising them of the changes and their options.
To determine Community Care eligibility and possibly opt in for services if eligible, call 866-606-8198. To express concerns, call 785-350-3111 ext. 53532 before Feb. 28. For other questions, call 785-350-3111 ext. 54348.
