Groundwork Starts on New VA Clinic in Citrus County

Veterans in Citrus County are set to benefit from a significant enhancement in healthcare services with the upcoming construction of a new VA clinic in Lecanto.

 

This facility aims to address the growing needs of the local veteran community by offering a broader range of medical services and accommodating more patients.

 

The current VA clinic in Lecanto has been a cornerstone for veterans' healthcare, but its capacity has been stretched thin.

 

With the veteran population in the area increasing, the demand for comprehensive medical services has outpaced the clinic's capabilities.

 

Recognizing this, plans have been set in motion to build a new, state-of-the-art facility designed to serve up to 10,000 patients, a notable increase from the 8,000 currently served.

 

The new clinic will introduce several specialized services that were previously unavailable locally.

 

Veterans will have access to radiology, audiology, optometry, physical therapy, prosthetics, podiatry, and more.

 

This expansion means that many veterans will no longer need to travel to facilities in New Port Richey, Ocala, or Brooksville for these services, significantly reducing travel time and associated stress.

 

Dr. Marta Babol, Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the importance of this development, stating that the new clinic will bring essential specialties closer to home for veterans.

 

Construction is slated to begin this summer, with the facility expected to open its doors in 2028.

 

In addition to expanded services, the clinic will also increase its staff from 55 to approximately 100 full-time employees, ensuring that veterans receive timely and comprehensive care.

 

For veterans like Frank Johns, a Navy veteran who currently travels to multiple locations for various treatments, the new clinic represents a significant improvement.

 

He expressed relief that services such as radiology, optometry, and audiology will soon be available locally, making healthcare more accessible and less burdensome.

 

This development underscores a commitment to enhancing veterans' healthcare on the Nature Coast, ensuring that those who have served the nation receive the quality care they deserve close to home.