Arc of the Ozarks hires director for Springfield autism clinic

Provided by The Arc of the Ozarks

Dr. Kyle John started this month at Arc of the Ozarks.

The Arc of the Ozarks has hired a longtime Mercy doctor to lead its autism clinic that's slated to open later this year.

Dr. Kyle John started April 6 at The Arc of the Ozarks, according to a news release. He's serving as medical director for the Neurodevelopmental and Autism Center, which was announced late last year.

“I’m excited to be joining The Arc of the Ozarks team with the goal of building a state-recognized Neurodevelopmental and Autism Center in Springfield," John said in the release. "For far too long, children and families from our region have been forced to travel to Kansas City, Columbia or St. Louis for both diagnosis and treatment of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders."

Officials with The Arc of the Ozarks, which provides support for people with disabilities, previously said they're targeting a July 1 grand opening for the $10 million project at 2864 S. Nettleton Ave. The project is located at Empower: abilities' former building, which was purchased by The Arc of the Ozarks.

Q & Co. LLC is serving as general contractor for the remodeling of the building designed by Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective, Springfield Business Journal previously reported.

The Arc of the Ozarks is partnering with Mercy Springfield Communities and Missouri State University to provide care at the clinic, which plans to offer comprehensive diagnostic, treatment and advocacy services.

John worked at Mercy for nearly 16 years before joining The Arc of the Ozarks this month. He most recently served as clinical vice president of behavioral health for the Mercy system, according to his LinkedIn profile.