Access Family Care celebrates start of $1.6 million construction project

Groundbreaking held for new Access clinic Democrat Photo On May 20, Access Family Care celebrated the beginning of a $1.6 million construction project that will build a new Cassville clinic off of Business 37 across from Barry Electric Cooperative headquarters. Several Access Family Care Board members, executives and staff and many local community members attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Pictured above, from left, are: Pamela Whitlock, FNP; Dr. Debra Davidson, chief operating officer; Cheryl Dalton, DNP, FNP; Dr. Brian Basham; Don McBride, chief executive officer; and Beth Personn, Kelly Brown and Francisco Bustillo, board members. [Order this photo]

"Thank you for the awesome turnout in spite of the stormy weather," said Don McBride, chief executive officer. "The day may be damp, but our spirits are not dampened. We are so excited to finally get to a place where we can build this facility."

When the construction project is completed, the new facility will house three medical providers, two dentists and two dental hygienists. Current Access medical staff members will also relocate to the new facility from the James D. Warn Community Clinic on Main Street in Cassville.

McBride introduced the Access Family Care Board and Dr. Debra Davidson, chief operating officer, during the ceremony. He also recognized local resident Chuck Buehler, who is a former member of the board.

"Cassville is one of the most awesome communities we have worked with," said McBride. "This community has been fully behind us throughout the process. We are glad to be a part of such a great community.

"For our Cassville staff and providers, this is a dream come true," said McBride. "Through this long-term process, we have grown to appreciate the community more. We couldn't do this without the continued generosity of the community. Thank you, Cassville."

Billy Long, 7th District Congressman, also attended the groundbreaking ceremony.

"I would like to thank everyone who turned out and congratulate the community," said Long. "This will be a great facility."

Long spoke briefly about his recent tour across southwest Missouri to discuss gas prices, the impacts of recent flooding and other issues with constituents.

"If I can ever help you out, let me know," said Long. "I can't make any promises to give you what you want, but I can promise that I will give a good effort in helping you reach your goals."

Davidson recognized several other members of the Access Family Care executive team and healthcare providers.

"We couldn't serve the community without the community," said Davidson. "You made this happen. Thank you for helping us support a service that helps subsidize patients. We accept those individuals who no one else will see. Thank you for being here to celebrate a new chapter in Access Family Care."

Access has contracted with R.E. Smith, a Joplin-based construction company, to build the new clinic. The project, which is expected to be completed in around nine months, will cost $1.6 million.

Kyle Denham, of Patterson, Latimer, Jones, Brannon and Denham, Inc., is serving as architect for the project.