Publix to open health clinic for employees

LAKELAND, Fla. Publix plans to open a second health clinic to treat minor injuries that occur in the company's local distribution center and plants, according to local reports.

The 427-square-foot clinic, still in the permitting phase, is expected to open in Lakeland, Fla. in the first quarter of 2008.

According to company spokesperson Shannon Patten, the clinic will be used to serve “less severe” injuries such as sprains and cuts and will be operated by an outside vendor.

"We chose Lakeland because we needed a clinic to provide treatment for all our warehousing, support and nearby retail associates who may have sustained work-related injuries," Patten said.

Publix opened the first clinic in Deerfield Beach, Fla. two years ago.