O'Fallon occupational health clinic closure would leave dozens of municipal contracts at risk, HSHS manager warns

Melissa Hunter, practice manager for HSHS Occupational Health in O'Fallon, told the council the hospital system notified clients July 16 that the occupational health service line will close and that services would end on Oct. 16.

"This is a huge issue for our community as we hold over 20 city contracts within 7 cities," Hunter said, describing work that includes police pre‑employment physicals, firefighter and EMT examinations and employer screenings. She said one major contract of concern is an RIDOC contract (eight of nine districts serviced) and that HSHS was working with local physicians to pursue alternatives.

Hunter asked the council to support HSHS in transitioning services to another local health system, to sign a petition she would circulate to show municipal backing at negotiations, and said she planned to attend a Belleville city council meeting the same night to press the case. "I encourage everyone to take a look at these and sign these," she said, and left contact information for follow up.

Council members did not take formal action during the meeting; staff and council members later noted the potential impact to public safety services and encouraged officials to coordinate with HSHS, other providers and regional leaders.

What happens next: Hunter requested municipal support during negotiations and said she will bring petitions and speak with other local elected officials; council staff and emergency services should expect follow‑up about continuity plans for pre‑employment and occupational screening services.