WS Chronicle

BY TEVIN STINSON 

THE CHRONICLE

United Health Centers (UHC, formerly, Southside United Health Center) is looking to expand its services in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County as well as other areas.

During an interview earlier this week, Chief Executive Officer LaShun Huntley said the name change is part of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit health organization’s plan to reach more patients and ensure everyone in the area has access to affordable healthcare.

Huntley said that under the old moniker, many people in the community assumed the center only served residents that live in the southern portion of the city.

“The name change just made sense,” Huntley continued. “We are looking to expand in the city as well as in other counties and communities.”

“A lot of people thought we only served those who live on the south side. We wanted everyone to know that we are here to serve everyone no matter where they stay.”

Along with the name change and new logo, the organization has also opened a new clinic in the SECU Commons located at 2351 Felicity Circle. UHC now also has extended hours during the week and is open on Saturdays. Huntley, who became CEO of the organization in 2012 after volunteering for two years, noted that although a lot has changed, the “patient centered philosophy” will remain the same.

“We are excited about the new location and the growth we have seen over the years,” said Huntley. “Our mission to provide healthcare for those in need will remain the same but now we have the ability to do that on a larger scale.”

The original healthcare center located in the Southeast Plaza Shopping Center on Waughtown Street opened its doors in 2009, after six neighborhood associations advocated for the establishment of a community clinic in an area termed “medically-underserved.” In 2012, the clinic achieved federally qualified health center status, which among other things provided the means to hire quality medical staff.

Over the years, UHC has proven to be an outlet for minorities seeking medical attention. ninety percent of the people served at the clinic are black or from Hispanic decent. In 2014, more than 85 percent of the patients who visited the clinic we at or below the poverty rate.

“That’s what we are all about here,” said Huntley, “to provide quality affordable service to the underserved. With the help from our wonderful staff and others in the community we have made that possible.”

Along with providing on-the-spot medical care, medical staff encourage new patients to make the clinic their medical home as well. Huntley said patients looking for a medical home should consider UHC because it will make it easier for doctors to diagnose and positively impact chronic diseases.

“There is no limitation to what we can do here. If you are looking for a medical home, United Health Centers’ is the place for you.”

United Health Centers is accepting new patients. For more information, visit the clinic located in the Southeast Plaza Shopping Center or the new location in The SECU Commons, 2351 Felicity Circle. UHC can also be reached by phone at 336-293-8728.