Healthcare and wellness services for employees of Lake County Schools doubled overnight.

The Lake County School Board, joined by representatives from the community and CareHere, officially opened the district’s new Employee Health & Wellness Center on U.S. Highway 27, near State Road 19.

Located in the front offices of the district’s new transportation center at 20265 U.S. Highway 27 North, the Employee Health & Wellness Center is about 2,000 total square feet with a reception lobby, records room, offices and three exam rooms.

“I’d like to thank district staff and CareHere for helping to get this facility up and running to provide our employees with an option to have medical care,” said School Board Chair Rosanne Brandeburg.

Lake County Schools opened its first Employee Health & Wellness Center a year ago in Eustis. The Lake County Schools’ Health & Wellness Centers are a no-cost alternative for employees, retirees and dependents that are covered by the District’s health insurance plan. The centers do not replace the district’s health insurance of Blue Cross & Blue Shield, but it is another option for employees.

“The office in Eustis is well used and I am most appreciative to be able to extend this program to South Lake,” said School Board Vice Chair Kyleen Fischer.

The centers focus on wellness initiatives, including providing employee’s health risk assessments, which is a short health examination that indicates a patient’s risk for certain diseases and medical conditions. Other services available at the center include primary care type services, including chronic disease management, medications, lab work and health & nutrition coaching. The Clermont location will also be equipped with digital X-ray equipment.

The centers are staffed by a physician and other supporting medical staff and wellness team, including a registered nurse, registered dietitian, tobacco cessation coach, exercise coach and behavioral health coach.

The Lake County School Board approved a contract with CareHere Crowne, LLC on May 9, 2011, to provide medical services at the health & wellness centers.

A third location is scheduled to open later this fall in Leesburg.