Baptist Healthplex at MC announces membership rate increase amid rising costs
Special to The Clinton Courier
Like many businesses across the country, the Baptist Healthplex at Mississippi College is adjusting its pricing as inflation continues to push up the cost of operations.
In a recent letter to members, Healthplex leadership announced updated membership rates that will take effect June 1. The facility noted that while monthly rates have only increased once in more than a decade (by 5% in 2014), the cost of staffing, maintenance and day-to-day operations has steadily risen in recent years.
Under the new pricing structure, a primary membership will increase from $62.75 to $75 per month, while family memberships will rise from $125 to $150. Some categories will see sharper jumps, with the largest percentage increase coming in the child 16–24 category, which will rise from $22 to $35 per month — an increase of roughly 59%.
The change comes at a time when rising costs for labor, utilities and basic supplies are being felt across nearly every sector of the economy, forcing businesses nationwide to reevaluate pricing just to remain sustainable.
For communities like Clinton, these increases can carry added weight. Small towns often rely on local institutions like the Healthplex not just as fitness centers, but as gathering places that support quality of life and community health. When operational costs rise, local organizations must balance affordability with long-term sustainability.
Healthplex leadership emphasized that, even with the adjustments, its rates remain competitive with similar facilities in the Jackson metro area. According to the letter, the facility’s goal is to continue providing high-quality programs and services while ensuring the facility remains financially stable for years to come.
The update also includes a change to payment processing beginning in August. Credit card payments will include a 3% fee, while ACH payments will carry a 1.85% fee. Members can avoid additional charges by setting up a debit card on file.
As inflation continues to affect everything from groceries to utilities, the Healthplex’s decision reflects a broader reality facing businesses both large and small — including those at the heart of communities like Clinton.
