The community has an opportunity to learn about a new addition to The Center for Counseling & Consultation during a come-and-go open house at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28.
The Genoa Healthcare pharmacy is located at The Center’s 5815 Broadway location, serving clients who need medication as part of their mental-health care and treatment. The open house follows a noon ribbon cutting; refreshments will be available.
“We have collaborated with Genoa for more than a year to provide this service to our clients,” said Julie Kramp, executive director at The Center. “Genoa specializes in mental-health medications, and they are experienced and proficient in providing this service.
“It is so important for clients to maintain their medication regimen,” Kramp added. “Genoa personnel provide pill-organizers and other safety features to customize prescriptions to clients’ specific needs.”
Genoa also participates in the Patient Assistance Program to ensure costs are as affordable as possible for all types of medications. The healthcare company is separate from The Center, which leases space to the company.
Kramp emphasized that clients do not have to patronize Genoa; they can use any pharmacy of their choosing.
“We wanted to add this option because many clients have barriers to seeking healthcare assistance,” Kramp noted. “For example, clients often have to arrange for transportation to their appointments at The Center. It is easier to fill prescriptions here rather than making additional transportation plans.”
Eric Bosley, pharmacist and site manager, noted that he and Hope Suppes, pharmacy technician, help clients monitor their medications for mental- and physical-health issues. Both are Genoa employees.
“We see people who struggle with mental-health issues, some of whom are in crisis,” Bosley said. “It is gratifying to know we can help. Now that filling a prescription is convenient, more clients are taking their medications as prescribed.
“This all goes hand-in-hand with the many other services at The Center. This whole building comes together to support clients. It is like one big hug from everybody.”
The Center for Counseling & Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.
