Improving Access to Healthcare with Stone Mountain Health Services
Do you know that as of 2021, only 32% of people in rural areas of the United States have access to an adequate supply of healthcare providers? This lack of access often leads to untreated medical conditions, underdiagnoses, and in some cases, even deaths. However, there are organizations out there working tirelessly to improve access to healthcare, like Stone Mountain Health Services.
What is Stone Mountain Health Services?
Stone Mountain Health Services (SMHS) is a community-based, nonprofit organization that aims to provide primary, preventive, and behavioral healthcare services to individuals and families in the Appalachian region of Virginia. Founded in 1976, SMHS now has 16 medical clinics and one dental clinic, serving over 28,000 patients each year.
How Does SMHS Improve Access to Healthcare?
One of the key ways SMHS improves access to healthcare in the region is by offering affordable services that are tailored to meet the unique needs of the people living in the area. For instance, SMHS provides on-site interpretation services for individuals who do not speak English fluently and helps patients navigate complex insurance systems.
Additionally, SMHS takes a holistic approach to healthcare and addresses both physical and mental health concerns in their patients. As such, the organization employs behavioral health specialists who work with patients to treat mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
SMHS also operates a mobile health clinic that travels to underserved communities, particularly those in remote areas where transportation is often a barrier to healthcare access. The mobile clinic provides free or low-cost medical and dental services to patients in these areas.
Impact of Stone Mountain Health Services
The impact of SMHS on the region cannot be overstated. Since its inception, thousands of patients have received medical care from SMHS, many of whom might not have had access to healthcare otherwise. The organization’s focus on preventive care has also led to a reduction in chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension in the area.
Moreover, SMHS employs over 200 individuals, most of whom are from the Appalachian region. By providing employment opportunities to local residents, SMHS not only improves access to healthcare but also contributes to the local economy.
Conclusion
Stone Mountain Health Services is a critical organization working to improve access to healthcare in the Appalachian region of Virginia. Through its affordable, tailored, and holistic healthcare services, SMHS has made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of patients in the area. By tackling the root causes of inadequate healthcare access, SMHS exemplifies how local organizations can combat health disparities and improve the overall health of their community.
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