PROCTORVILLE — The Ironton-Lawrence County Community Action Organization opened its first family medical center about 40 years ago.

Since 1976, Nancy Lewis has played a vital part of that program that was first located in Ironton founder John Campbell’s house on Lawrence Street.

That’s why the new Rome Proctorville Family Medical Center was dedicated to her at an open house ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday.

D.R. Gossett, executive director of the CAO, praised the long-time nurse practitioner, and director of health integration, development and clinical quality for the organization, before unveiling the engraved stone by the building’s front doors.

“Her effort and the style in which she (Lewis) handles people … is extraordinary,” Gossett said.

Gossett said the choice to dedicate the new facility to Lewis wasn’t a hard one, and one that no one opposed.

“We all want to grow up to be like you,” Gossett said.

“I’ve never been so shocked in all my life,” Lewis said after cutting the blue ribbon. “I’m so honored. It’s a humbling experience. I love this organization and I love being able to provide wonderful services to the community.”

The 6,000-square foot medical center across from Fairland East Elementary School has been open a few months, but Monday’s open house gave the community a chance to walk the hallways and get an up close view of the 12 exam rooms and six dental exam areas.

The facility, in a partnership with St. Mary’s Medical Center, offers pediatric care for children as young as 4 years old, as well as primary and family medical care.

Gossett said the facility is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday and the CAO will begin recruiting more providers around the first of the year.

“There is a lot of room to grow and that’s what we’re hoping for,” Gossett said.

The CAO’s family medical centers also offer sliding-scale payment plans for those who need assistance.