On Oct. 15, the Missouri State University Care Clinic celebrated its 10th anniversary with leaders from Mercy and community members.  

The clinic opened in 2015 on campus to provide free health services and medications for underserved and uninsured patients. Since then, it has served more than 33,000 patients through a wide range of services, expanding primary care access for Springfield neighbors.  

Milestone grounded in community care 

Connie Sayre has served at the clinic since day one. 

“I love that we’re here to care for our patients and that Missouri State and Mercy have teamed up to make sure our most vulnerable patients have access to care,” she said. 

The clinic provides primary care, vaccines, pharmacy counseling, nutrition guidance, lab tests and electrocardiograms. It also offers in-clinic procedures, such as wound care, suture removal, ear irrigation and nebulizer support. 

Many visitors cannot afford traditional primary care or have delayed care; some are homeless or lack transportation.   

“Our goal is to provide a medical home for our patients who often don’t fit into the traditional health care model,” said Clinic Manager Justin Gassel.  

In September 2024, services expanded to include Medicaid patients. The clinic currently sees an average of 210 patients per month. 

A successful training site and collaborative network

Staffed by providers from Missouri State and Mercy, the clinic also serves as a training site for students in the university’s physician assistant, pharmacy, dietetics and nursing programs. 

In addition to primary care services, the clinic provides essential resources, including hygiene kits, groceries and winter clothing. These items are made possible through organizations like Community Partnership of the Ozarks, Convoy of Hope, Mercy Health Foundation and Ozarks Food Harvest. 

“Hosting the MSU Care Clinic is an honor that exemplifies Missouri State’s public affairs mission in action,” said Dr. Mark Smith, dean of the McQueary College of Health and Human Services. 

“This clinic gives our students invaluable hands-on experience while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to serve others as future health care professionals. At the same time, our community’s neediest members benefit from quality, accessible care, demonstrating that lasting impact happens when education, compassion and community partnerships work hand in hand.” 

Check out the MSU Care Clinic