NJBiz.com – A ribbon was cut to celebrate the first special needs primary care facility in the South Jersey region as the result of a continued partnership with Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine.

The Rowan Integrated Special Needs Center, which initially will be located at the Bankbridge Development Center in Sewell, will deliver care for people with physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

“This program will increase access to routine medical services, preventative health and personal care for patients with special needs and their families in the same venues where their neighbors receive care,” Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger said.

The county will provide a social worker to assist the staff of the RISN.

“Unless you drive to another state or 45 miles north of here, there is not access to primary care services for special needs children and their families. That stops today,” said Senate President Steve Sweeney.

Rowan Integrated Special Needs Center eventually will be located at the new medical building planned for Rowan College at Gloucester County.

“When the main outpatient location moves to the new facility at RCGC, it will expand services and serve as a platform for educating new physicians and ancillary colleagues to provide comprehensive care,” said Freeholder Lyman Barnes, liaison to the Department of Education.

Hours beginning in May will be 2-6 p.m. Thursdays and 9 a.m. to noon one Saturday a month. For appointment information, call 856-566-7070.