Overview of Springfield Federal Medical Center

Springfield Federal Medical Center (FMC Springfield) is a federal medical prison in Springfield, Missouri. It is part of the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and serves male inmates who require specialized medical, mental health, and dental care. This facility is classified as an administrative-security institution, meaning it can house inmates of all security levels based on their healthcare needs rather than their criminal profile.

Originally established in 1933, the facility was designed to treat inmates who were mentally ill or medically compromised, often segregating them from the general prison population. Today, the medical center offers advanced healthcare services and psychiatric care, including a dedicated 20-bed psychiatric unit. The inmate population at Springfield FMC includes both long-term patients and those receiving temporary treatment for serious medical conditions.

Springfield Federal Medical Center

Springfield Federal Medical Center Contact Information

  • Address:
    Springfield Federal Medical Center
    1900 West Sunshine Street
    Springfield, MO 65807

  • Phone Number:
    417-862-7041

  • Fax Number:
    417-837-1717

  • Email Address:
    SPG/[email protected]

  • Inmate Correspondence Address:
    [Inmate Name and Registration Number]
    FMC Springfield
    P.O. Box 4000
    Springfield, MO 65801

Visiting Information for Springfield Federal Medical Center

Visits at Springfield FMC are allowed, but specific guidelines must be followed to ensure safety and order. Visits are typically limited to weekends and holidays, with hours generally between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. However, it is essential to confirm the visiting schedule as it can vary by inmate status and institutional needs.

During a visit, you will be expected to adhere to strict guidelines, including wearing appropriate attire and carrying valid identification. Personal items such as phones, bags, and electronic devices are not permitted in the visiting area. The visit duration is typically between 1 to 2 hours, and visits are closely monitored by staff. Visitors may bring up to three individuals, including minors, per visit.

How to Book a Visit to Springfield Federal Medical Center

To book a visit to Springfield Federal Medical Center, you must first be an approved visitor. The inmate will need to submit your name for approval, and you must provide valid identification and submit to a background check. Once approved, you can schedule your visit by calling the prison or using the online visitor system provided by the Bureau of Prisons. Bring a valid ID, and you may be subject to additional security screenings at the entrance. Make sure to arrive on time to avoid delays.

 

Directions to Springfield Federal Medical Center and Parking Information

Springfield Federal Medical Center is located on West Sunshine Street, near the intersection with the Kansas Expressway, just off Interstate 44 in Springfield, Missouri. Ample parking is available for visitors directly in front of the facility. For those traveling from out of town, Springfield is well-connected by major highways, and public transport options are available within the city.

 

Life Inside Springfield Federal Medical Center

Life inside Springfield FMC varies depending on the inmate’s medical needs. As a medical facility, the primary focus is on healthcare rather than traditional incarceration. Inmates have access to medical treatments, mental health care, and rehabilitation services. Housing conditions can range from hospital-like settings for critical care patients to dormitory-style accommodations for those with less severe health issues. Recreation, education programs, and religious services are also offered, but are secondary to medical treatment.

There have been occasional incidents of violence, including inmate-on-inmate assaults, though these are relatively rare compared to standard prisons. The facility’s medical focus creates a quieter, more controlled environment overall.

Famous Prisoners at Springfield Federal Medical Center

Over the years, Springfield FMC has housed several notorious inmates:

  • John Gotti: Infamous leader of the Gambino crime family, who passed away here in 2002 while serving a life sentence for multiple crimes, including murder and racketeering.
  • Larry Flynt: Publisher of Hustler magazine, briefly held at the center for contempt of court in 1984.
  • Anastasy Vonsiatsky: A fascist leader during World War II, held here between 1942-1946.
  • Anthony “Fat Tony” Salerno: A front boss of the Genovese crime family, died at Springfield FMC in 1992 while serving a 100-year sentence.

FAQs About Springfield Federal Medical Center

  • What type of inmates does Springfield Federal Medical Center hold?
    Springfield FMC houses male inmates who require specialized medical or psychiatric care.

  • How do I contact an inmate at Springfield Federal Medical Center?
    You can contact an inmate via mail at the following address: [Inmate Name], P.O. Box 4000, Springfield, MO 65801.

  • What is the visiting schedule at Springfield Federal Medical Center?
    Visits are typically available on weekends and holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, but confirm with the facility before visiting.

  • Are there any famous inmates at Springfield Federal Medical Center?
    Yes, some notable inmates include John Gotti and Larry Flynt, among others.

  • What security level is Springfield Federal Medical Center?
    Springfield FMC is an administrative-security prison, meaning it accommodates inmates of all security levels based on their medical needs.

  • How do I send money to an inmate at Springfield FMC?
    Money can be sent through the federal prison system’s approved methods, such as through MoneyGram or Western Union.

  • Is Springfield Federal Medical Center the same as a regular prison?
    No, it primarily functions as a medical treatment facility within the federal prison system.

  • Can I bring children to visit an inmate at Springfield FMC?
    Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

  • What should I wear when visiting Springfield Federal Medical Center?
    Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code—modest, non-revealing clothing is required.

  • How do I get approved to visit an inmate at Springfield FMC?
    You must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list, which requires submitting identification and undergoing a background check.

Conclusion

Springfield Federal Medical Center plays a unique role in the federal prison system, offering specialized healthcare to male inmates with serious medical and psychiatric needs. With a long history and a reputation for housing some high-profile inmates, this institution is one of the most notable medical facilities in the U.S. prison system. For more information, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

References

Visit Southern Ohio Correctional Facility