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Ocala
Friday, March 29, 2024

Ocala Employee Health Clinic moving closer to expansion, remodel

Ocala Employee Health Clinic is moving one step closer to expansion.

The clinic, which is located at 2100 NE 30th Avenue in Ocala, consistently operates at or near full capacity. Each day, the clinic provides access to affordable healthcare services for approximately 1,950 eligible employees, retirees, and dependents enrolled in the city’s health insurance plan.

The city feels that expansion is necessary due to the limited number of appointments that can currently be scheduled for patients.

On September 7, the city issued an invitation for companies to place bids for the expansion and remodeling of the clinic.

Five bids were received, and after a cost-benefit analysis, MIE, Inc. was found to be the most competitive bid. The expansion and remodel through MIE, Inc. would cost nearly $265,000.

The planned expansion will include additional exam rooms, a redesigned reception lobby, medical workstations, and additional restrooms. The city believes that this project will create an enhanced medical and office environment, accommodate more patients, and provide insurance cost savings by avoiding outside provider claims expenses.

This matter was originally on the agenda for the Ocala City Council meeting that was held on Tuesday, December 7. Newly elected council member Kristen Dreyer indicated that she has numerous questions regarding this matter, specifically regarding the selection of MIE, and she requested that the discussion be tabled until the next meeting.

During the upcoming regular meeting on Tuesday, December 21, the council members will discuss and vote on whether or not to approve the agreement with MIE, Inc. for the clinic’s remodel and expansion.

The council members meet on the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Ocala City Hall, which is located at 110 SE Watula Avenue in downtown Ocala.