Doctor William Craig Denham announced exciting developments for Mason County's healthcare landscape during the Mason County Fiscal Court Special Meeting on March 28, 2024. The highlight of the meeting was the successful filling of all four slots in the new residency program at Primary Plus, marking a significant step forward for local medical education and healthcare services.

March 15, known as National Match Day, saw medical school seniors across the country learn where they would be completing their residencies. Doctor Denham reported that Primary Plus secured two in-state residents and two from out of state, including one each from Pennsylvania and South Carolina. This inaugural class will be based at the Browning Medical Building, which is undergoing renovations to accommodate the residency clinic.

In addition to the residency program, Doctor Denham outlined plans for a rotating adult specialty clinic in collaboration with major Cincinnati hospital systems, aiming to enhance healthcare access in the community. He emphasized the positive impact of the existing partnership with Cincinnati Children's Hospital, which has brought pediatric specialists to Mason County.

The meeting also highlighted the introduction of a mobile healthcare unit, designed to reach underserved areas, including the Amish community and other locations that may have limited access to medical facilities. This 40-foot RV will feature two exam rooms and a small lab, with plans for a second unit that will include mobile pharmacy and dental services.

Doctor Denham encouraged community input on the mobile unit's deployment and expressed a commitment to addressing local healthcare needs, including the recruitment of new OB-GYNs in light of an upcoming retirement. He also mentioned plans for a second retail pharmacy and an infusion center to provide essential services to residents.

As the meeting concluded, Doctor Denham called for collaboration between the county, city, and Chamber of Commerce to create a welcoming environment for new residents, suggesting initiatives like welcome baskets and community receptions to help integrate them into the community. The next 18 months promise to be transformative for healthcare in Mason County, with these initiatives poised to significantly enhance local medical services and community health.