As the Cassopolis Family Clinic continues to grow and serve the community, a new on-site pharmacy is the next phase of health care for village residents.

The pharmacy recently opened in the new Cassopolis Family Clinic at 261 M-62 North.

The pharmacy is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday.

“The concept of a patient-centered medical home is to create an environment where patients routinely go for medical care and the services they need are available,” Mary Geegan Middleton, Cassopolis Family Clinic chief executive officer said. “The opening of our pharmacy moves us along the continuum of integration of services for our patients. Having a pharmacist on site improves the opportunity for communication among professionals; doctor to pharmacist, dentist to pharmacist, nurse to pharmacist, all who have the best interest of their patients at heart.

“It also gives our patients the opportunity to ask the pharmacist or pharmacy technicians questions they may have about their medications. We’re pleased to offer this service at our new facility in Cassopolis, and encourage our patients to consider using our pharmacy for their prescription needs.”

The pharmacy is staffed by pharmacist James Van Hulle, RPh. He received his degree from Purdue University and has 35 years of experience in retail pharmacy, including the position of managing pharmacist at a local pharmacy.

“The best part about being a pharmacist for a community health center is the ability to work hand-in-hand with the providers on-site to ensure we are doing everything possible to provide the best overall care for each patient,” Van Hulle said. “I have had the honor of creating trusting relationships with many of the residents of Cassopolis over the past 19 years and look forward to serving them for many years to come at Cassopolis Family Clinic.”

The clinic, a practice of Cassopolis Family Clinic Network, offers primary care, behavioral health and dental services.

Having an on-site pharmacy allows patients the convenience of filling their prescriptions in the same facility they receive their care. It should also decrease the waiting time and promote direct communication between the provider and the pharmacist.

The pharmacy is part of the 340B program. Most commercial insurances, Medicaid and Medicare are accepted and a sliding fee discount is available for those who qualify.