Albert Lea Area Schools opens on-site health clinic

HealthPartners-managed clinic located at the Brookside Education Center aims to keep district’s employees healthy and save on health care costs

BLOOMINGTON and ALBERT LEA, Minn. — Nov. 7, 2014 — Albert Lea Area Schools and HealthPartners are pleased to announce the opening of a Well@Work on–site clinic at the district’s Brookside Education Center. The new clinic offers worksite health care services to eligible employees and their dependents and is designed to save time, money and productivity for district staff and tax payers.

The clinic, which is managed by HealthPartners, offers primary, acute and preventive care services, treatment of minor medical conditions, health and well-being counseling, lab services and more. It’s staffed by a certified nurse practitioner and can be accessed by Albert Lea Area Schools’ employees and dependents 18-months and older who participate in the district–sponsored health plan.

“This new on–site clinic is one way we’re able to make going to the doctor easier for our workforce,” says Michael Funk, superintendant of Albert Lea Area Schools. “Not only does this make health care more convenient, but we expect it’ll generate cost savings and reduce sick days. It’s another way we’re able to protect the health and well-being of our most valuable asset – our teachers and staff.”

The Well@Work clinic compliments the district’s existing employee health and well–being initiatives, which focus on promoting healthy lifestyle choices. The clinic will be open Monday through Friday, with hours varying depending on the day.

“More employers are recognizing the positive benefits an on–site clinic can have on workforce health,” explains Charlie Fazio, MD, HealthPartners health plan medical director.

“When services are easily accessible, employees receive the right care at the right time. That creates greater efficiency, which helps employers realize cost savings through increased productivity, improved health and reduced medical claims.”

Services commonly offered through a Well@Work clinic include primary, acute and preventive care services, management of chronic medical conditions and a variety of health and well–being counseling and support.

Media are invited to attend a grand opening ceremony at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, at Albert Lea Area Schools’ Brookside Education Center located at 211 West Richway Drive.