PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA, May 26, 2005:
The Treasure Coast's senior citizens may soon have a "one-stop shop" to get medical attention and socialize with others under a proposed plan from local social service agencies.
Treasure Coast Hospices and the Council on Aging want to use 15,000 to 20,000 square feet in the old Kmart building in Eastport Plaza on U.S. 1 for the program. Plans include an adult day care center with medical professionals on hand to treat senior patients, said Louis Benson, chief executive officer of Treasure Coast Hospices.
Plans are expected to be submitted to the Port St. Lucie Planning and Zoning department this week, he added.
"It's a one-stop shop kind of thing," Benson said. "It's more than just a day care."
But, the program could suffer a serious setback if it's part of cuts to the state budget Gov. Jeb Bush is expected to make today.
TaxWatch, a nonprofit budget watchdog group, recommended Bush cut $973,000 in funding for the program last week.
Benson said if Bush vetoes money for the project it would not kill the plan, but it would make it more difficult to fund start up costs.
The plan is part of the state-funded Program for All Inclusive Care for the Elderly, and will include pharmacists, doctors, physical and occupational therapists and nurses on site, Benson said. The program also is being started in Fort Myers, Benson added.
Seniors who are diagnosed as clinically frail and are over 55 are eligible to participate in the program, and Medicaid and Medicare are accepted, he said.
Hospice plans to partner with Council on Aging groups on the Treasure Coast to operate the day care center.
Benson said the day care will allow elderly residents to socialize and get needed medical attention at one place rather than driving to several doctor's offices.
"There's no city dollars involved and it's going to bring a wonderful service to residents of the Treasure Coast," he said.
Program participants still will be able to visit their local council on aging centers, Benson said.
City Councilman Jack Kelly, who serves on the board of the Council on Aging, said the council's day care center in Port St. Lucie is already at capacity and the new plan will allow the group to serve more residents.
"This is a welcome addition to the city," Kelly said.
Hospice is working on a lease with Regency Centers, a property management company to use the space.
The plans must be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board and City Council.
By Sarah Myrick
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