US-based health system Mercy and Humana have announced a collaboration to open 65 new Prime+ by Mercy Primary Care clinics.

These clinics are designed to enhance accessibility and support for patients aged 65 years and over who are on Medicare.

In 2023, Mercy introduced the 65 Prime+ clinic concept, starting with an inaugural facility in Joplin, Missouri, US.

Currently, five such clinics are operational across the state.

In partnership with Humana, Mercy aims to increase the number of 65 Prime+ clinics within Missouri and potentially expand into other states where Mercy operates, such as Arkansas and Oklahoma.

These facilities will be available in-network for most Medicare Advantage plans and welcome patients with original Medicare.

Mercy president and CEO Steve Mackin said: “Our goal is for these clinics to become mini-community centres where patients can see their doctor, get answers to questions about Medicare, participate in activities or even have a cup of coffee with friends.

“At Mercy, we believe in caring for the entire patient, not just individual symptoms, which is why we’ve designed these clinics for Medicare patients who need more time and attention in their health care. Deploying clinics built from the ground up and staffed with patients in mind will ensure they live their best possible life and achieve their health goals.”

Construction on the first three collaborative clinics in Springfield and Nixa is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with an opening planned in June.

The collaboration between Mercy and Humana will focus on selecting sites for the 65 Prime+ clinics that offer convenient access for patients, with each clinic accommodating up to 2,000 new patients.