Eastern Kentuckians now have a new source to turn to for health care thanks to Morehead State’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

Rural Medical Group in Allen opened its doors Oct. 1. It is owned and operated by Sarah Brown, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

Brown had a desire to open a clinic in Eastern Kentucky that would provide quality health care in a friendly, nurturing environment, without significant wait times. She was unsure how to open her own clinic and sought the services of the Morehead State University Small Business Development Center in August 2017. Brown and her husband met with Michelle Spriggs, management consultant, and discussed the feasibility of opening the clinic. After finding a suitable location, Brown and Spriggs worked on her business plan, projections, marketing research and other facets that would make her dream clinic a reality.

“The SBDC was instrumental in the preparation and start-up of our clinic. Michelle has been great to work with and assisted us with everything from legal structure, tax information, feasibility analysis, to the difficult task of completing our business plan and financial projections. She continues to support and lend any assistance needed today. The Prestonsburg SBDC is a wonderful free resource for anyone thinking about starting their own small business,” said Brown, on her experience with the MSU SBDC.

Rural Medical Group offers preventive care, lab services, diagnostic treatment, family care, gynecology, minor procedures, adult medicine, chronic health issues and screenings for flu, strep, and RSV, along with other medical services. Brown accepts patients of all ages.

Rural Medical Group is opened Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday, 2-8 p.m. by appointment. After hours appointments will be given to those who cannot make it during traditional office hours. It is located at 6450 KY Route 1428, Suite two. 

“It has been a pleasure working with Sarah and her husband Carl. They ran into some pretty discouraging obstacles along the way to opening their business but never gave up on their dream. I look forward to their journey as entrepreneur’s and their contribution to the health and well-being of the citizens of Eastern Kentucky,” said Spriggs.

Brown graduated from Big Sandy Community and Technical College with an associate degree in nursing and obtained her bachelor’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Brown went on to graduate with honors from Tennessee State University with her master’s degree in advanced practice nursing in 2016.

The Prestonsburg SBDC office serves Breathitt, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Pike and Wolfe counties.

For additional information on SBDC services, contact MSU SBDC at Prestonsburg, by calling 1-800-648-5372 ext. 2681 or by emailing m.spriggs@moreheadstate.edu.