Alabama Extension, Auburn University Outreach Partner with OnMed, Bringing Health Care Solutions to Chambers County

AUBURN —

The future of health care is here today for residents of nearby rural Chambers County. A multidisciplinary program at Auburn University — and an innovative virtual care station offered by OnMed — are providing better access to quality health care for a community in need.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn Outreach and the Auburn colleges of Pharmacy, Nursing and Human Sciences have teamed up with leaders from the city of LaFayette and Chambers County to provide the facility. Through the OnMed Care Station — one of only four of its kind in the U.S. — residents can experience affordable, private and real-time visits with Alabama licensed health care professionals in a virtual setting, and for the first 60 days, they can use the facility at no charge.

“The installation of an OnMed Care Station signals a new day in health care for our community,” said Rachel Snoddy, Alabama Extension coordinator for Chambers County.

“Patients can expect quality care without the long waits at a doctor’s office, and prescriptions will be sent immediately to their pharmacy. The improved access will change the health of our citizens for the better.”

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

LaFayette currently has no urgent care facility, and the nearest hospital is a 30-minute drive away. The OnMed Care Station, located in the Chambers County Community Health and Wellness Center, is part of Auburn’s Rural Health Initiative. The center is now open to the public and available to community members for convenient access to affordable primary care, including diagnosis, re- ferrals, prescription and treatment options.

“Our collaborative team is thrilled with the opportunity to support the health of the Chambers County community based on the feedback we have received directly from the community members themselves,” said Hollie Cost, assistant vice president of University Outreach and Public Service.

“Residents throughout the area have indicated a need for greater access to health care, as well as health and wellness programming and information during extended hours. This new center is positioned to honor those needs and wishes with additional services being added as See HEALTH CARE, page A5