Wake Up Tri-Counties Samantha Talks New OSF HealthCare OnCall Primary Care Van

OSF St. Luke Discusses Mobile Primary Care, Community Outreach, and Hog Days on Wake Up Tri-Counties Samantha Rux talks about OSF OnCall Primary Care on the Go, upcoming community events, and her favorite Hog Days food. Samantha Rux of OSF St. Luke Medical Center recently joined Ken Peele on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss a new mobile healthcare initiative from OSF OnCall, community outreach, and the upcoming Hog Days celebration. Rux explained that OSF OnCall, the digital health arm of OSF HealthCare, has been working to transform healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Many residents in the area are already familiar with the OSF OnCall King Caravan, a mobile health clinic that serves Henry County and regularly appears at community events. Depending on the available mission partners, the caravan can offer a variety of services, including healthcare navigation and visits with an advanced practice provider. However, Rux said OSF OnCall has recently launched a new concept designed to provide greater consistency in primary care: OSF OnCall Primary Care on the Go. Bringing Primary Care Directly to Communities The new mobile clinic is designed to provide a primary care experience similar to what patients would receive at a traditional brick-and-mortar office—except the clinic can travel to underserved areas. The program is initially launching in the Rockford area, with several permanent stops planned on the city's west side. An advanced practice provider will be available at the mobile clinic, with services including Preventative care Chronic disease management Wellness visits Treatment for common illnesses Lab draws EKGs Other primary care services Rux explained that one of the major differences between Primary Care on the Go and the King Caravan is consistency. While services on the King Caravan can vary depending on the event and mission partners available, Primary Care on the Go is designed around a regular schedule and consistent primary care services. Patients will be able to establish care and schedule appointments, with billing and insurance handled similarly to a traditional primary care office. The mobile service is scheduled to launch August 17th. Those interested in using the service can find clinic locations, schedules, and appointment availability through OSF MyChart and the OSF OnCall website once the service launches. Potential Expansion Rux said the program currently has three permanent stops in the Rockford area, but OSF hopes to expand the service as the program grows. Another potential opportunity is bringing the mobile clinics directly to employers and major manufacturing facilities. Rux noted that people often struggle to find time for routine healthcare appointments between work and responsibilities at home. Having primary care available at or near a workplace could make it easier for employees to receive care without taking significant time away from work. No specific timeline has been announced for expansion into other communities, but Rux said she expects the program could grow quickly if it demonstrates strong results and helps patients who have struggled to access healthcare. OSF St. Luke Preparing for Hog Days The conversation also turned toward Hog Days, one of Kewanee's biggest community celebrations. OSF St. Luke Medical Center is a major sponsor of the Hog Days Stampede, and the OSF OnCall King Caravan will also be present during the festivities. Rux said OSF St. Luke enjoys being involved in Hog Days and getting out into the community to show its support. She also reminded listeners that flu shot season is approaching. Residents can receive flu vaccinations through retail pharmacies or ask about getting a flu shot when making an appointment with their primary care provider.