Pipefitters Local 597 Case Study

The Challenge

Pipefitters Local 597’s geographically dispersed population performs physically demanding work under stressful, sometimes dangerous conditions. Their members needed a healthcare solution that not only treated injury and chronic conditions but included prevention and primary care.

“We want to support our member’s health through their entire career and retirement. The pension plan could also save money by preventing disease and disability to support our members’ health and extend their working life.” says Nichole Linhardt, Plan Administrator for Pipefitters Local 597.

With approximately 21,000 eligible members, Local 597 recognized that health insurance does not equal healthcare access. Offering a direct primary care solution to their members could improve the accessibility and quality of the medical services their members and families need and deserve.

Our Solution

Local 597 opened two health centers, both located within state-of-the-art centralized training facilities in Mokena, IL, and Crown Point, IN. This decision has made it easy for existing members to access care. It provides the opportunity to introduce new members early and engage them in their health at the beginning of their careers.

Local 597 took control of its healthcare by opening on-site health centers. The centers reduced costs associated with their members' chronic illnesses and improved access to high-quality primary and preventive care services.