Sleepy Eye Medical Center (SEMC) will open a new clinic in Fairfax on Friday, Oct. 2, expanding access to quality, comprehensive care for patients in Fairfax and surrounding communities.
With many patients already coming to SEMC from the Fairfax area, expanding care to the community was a natural next step, said SEMC Administrator Todd Consbruck.
“This will save many of them the drive, and it allows us to support their community as well.”
The opportunity to establish a clinic in Fairfax came after Dr. Thomas F. Gilles, who owned and operated the clinic for many years, reached out to SEMC earlier this year to gauge the medical center’s interest. Dr. Gilles recently retired, and SEMC signed a long-term lease with the Gilles family this summer.
Work began in July to prepare the clinic, including light remodeling and updates to technology and equipment.
“Our goals is a clinic the community can be proud of and trust.”
The Gilles family has been instrumental in making the transition smooth, Consbruck said.
“The Gilles family could not have made this process easier or more turn-key–they clearly have the best interests of patients and the community at heart. We’re fortunate to be entrusted with continuing their legacy of care.”
The Sleepy Eye Medical Center Fairfax Clinic will provide care for patients of all ages, including:
- Sports, DOT and well-child exams
- Chronic disease management
- Illness visits and rechecks
- Laboratory testing
- Minor procedures
- Immunizations
Dr. John Pelzel, a longtime SEMC physician, will see patients at the Fairfax Clinic on Friday mornings beginning October 2. SEMC is also hiring a family nurse practitioner or physician assistant who will eventually see patients at the clinic three additional days each week.
Emergency care will continue to be provided at SEMC’s emergency department in Sleepy Eye.
Open House and Flu Clinic
The community is invited to tour the new Sleepy Eye Medical Center Fairfax Clinic during an open house from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7. The open house will provide an opportunity for community members to see the newly updated space and learn more about the care that will be available locally.
Also on Wednesday, Oct. 7, SEMC will host a flu vaccine clinic from 2-6 p.m. at the Fairfax Community Center, located next door to the new clinic. The flu clinic is open to individuals 6 months of age and up, and appointments are recommended. To schedule an appointment, call 507-794-3691 or 1-877-794-3691.
Appointments for care at the Fairfax clinic can be scheduled by calling 507-794-3691 or 1-877-794-3691. The Fairfax clinic’s existing phone number, 507-426-7228, will remain the same, with calls rolling over to Sleepy Eye when the Fairfax clinic is closed.