FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  |  March24, 2026

CONTACT: Whitney Jones, (985) 284-2491

 AMITE RURAL HEALTH CLINIC TRANSITIONS

WALK-IN SERVICES TO WEST OAK FAMILYCLINIC

[AMITE, LA] – Amite Rural Health Clinic, the primary care division of Hood Memorial Hospital, has acquired West Oak Family Clinic, located at 903 W. Oak Street in Amite, and will transition walk-in care services there beginning Monday, March 30.

 West Oak Family Clinic will be open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.  and Saturday from 8-11:3- a.m. and is equipped to treat minor illnesses and injuries, complete physicals/CDLs and care for other conditions that require prompt attention. Patients will walk-in to receive care from familiar faces – providers from Amite Rural Health Clinic who are board certified to treat children age 6 months and older) and adults.

“This change is designed to improve access to care for both primary care and walk-in patients, ultimately enhancing their experience,” shares Francis Cefalu, MD, Medical Director. “By creating a dedicated walk-in care location, we can offer quick and convenient care for urgent medical needs while also ensuring our primary care providers have the time needed to focus on long-term patient health.”

“Our goal is simple, to meet patients where they are and provide the care they need – when they need it,” shares Michael Whittington, CEO. “By opening earlier, staying later and serving patients on Saturdays, we’re removing barriers and making healthcare more convenient for busy families and working individuals – keeping our community healthier and better supported.”

Amite Rural Health Clinic will have new hours – Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. – and appointments are required. Providers treat those needing ongoing care, preventive services like screenings and immunizations, wellness visits and chronic disease management. To schedule an appointment, call (985) 748-7141.

“This transition allows Amite Rural Health Clinic to better serve patients by improving appointment availability, reducing wait times and creating a more efficient care environment for both scheduled visits and same-day medical needs,” remarks Elizabeth O’Neill, Clinic Operational Director.  

Amite Rural Health Clinic providers are Drs. Francis Cefalu and Diane Kirby; Nurse Practitioners Shea Edwards, Tara Estay, Sunne Glasgow, Zandi Hudspeth and Lindsey Misita. Amite Rural Health Clinic is located at 409 Northwest Central Avenue in Amite.

Both primary care and walk-in clinics accept most major insurance plans, Medicare and Medicaid. Self-pay options at time of service are available. Additionally, if a primary care or walk-in patient requires additional medical testing, imaging or emergent attention, providers will work directly with Hood Memorial Hospital to expediate care.‍

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About Amite Rural Health Clinic
2025Community Star Winner

2024Outstanding Rural Health Organization of the Year Recipient

Amite Rural Health Clinic is a full-service healthcare practice and division of Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. A full complement of outpatient and diagnostic services, as well as preventive and primary care for patients of all ages is offered. Amite Rural Health Clinic is an "Exemplary Provider,” accredited by The Compliance Team for demonstrating outstanding healthcare delivery practices and compliance to safety, honesty and caring. Both the hospital and clinic share the same mission and goal of providing the highest level of care affordable and incorporating empathy, compassion and a hometown approach to those served.

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(West Oak Family Clinic, located at 903 W. Oak Street in Amite, is now a division of Hood Memorial Hospital and will operate as a walk-in care clinic beginning Monday, March 30.)

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