Nestled in the vibrant heart of South Boston, health shines brightly with the opening of PATHS’ (Piedmont Access to Health Services) latest facility. This is a significant milestone for the healthcare provider, with a philosophy deeply rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to exceptional healthcare, regardless of their financial situation.
One of the most anticipated additions to the facility is the introduction of a comprehensive OB-GYN program. Previously, residents of South Boston had to travel elsewhere for these essential services. “The past location did not have OB-GYN services. So, at the new facility, we are very excited to offer that service line to that community,” Tammy Osborne, Women’s Health Operations Manager of PATHS, said. This program promises a full spectrum of women’s health services, including obstetric care, GYN care, and ultrasound care, ensuring women at any stage of life receive the care they need from a dedicated team of professionals.
But the facility’s commitment doesn’t stop at women’s health. Recognizing the critical importance of oral health, PATHS has expanded to include dental care, addressing a gap that forced many residents to seek services far from home. “We were getting a lot of referrals. They were having to come to Danville,” Marsha Mendenhall, CEO of PATHS, added.
The new PATHS facility embodies a holistic approach to healthcare, offering a “one-stop-shop” for the community’s needs. From a full-service pharmacy with a drive-through to behavioral health counselors, pediatric care, and adult primary care, the facility ensures that comprehensive care is not just a concept, but a reality for the people of South Boston.
This all-encompassing approach is part of PATHS’s broader vision to provide exceptional healthcare to all. “It gives us a space to grow. It really expands the number of patients we can see,” Mendenhall said, underscoring the transformative potential of the new space. The facility not only offers room for immediate growth but also holds promise for future expansion with additional undeveloped land poised to become a community park.
Education and community involvement stand as pillars of PATHS’s mission, with the facility’s conference center set to host a myriad of health education programs. “We’re really excited about it. We welcome the community if they’ve got ideas to call us, and we’ll work with them,” Mendenhall said, inviting the community to play an active role in shaping the facility’s future.
The outreach efforts to inform the community about the new facility and its offerings are robust, including plans for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and engagements with local and federal representatives. “We’ve talked to the Delegate and the Senator. We’re planning on inviting them down so they can see what’s going on.” Mendenhall highlighted the importance of support and visibility at all levels of government.
Looking to the future, the facility plans to offer extended hours and weekend appointments, reflecting a nationwide initiative for community health centers. This commitment to accessibility strengthens PATHS’s dedication to serve the community’s needs.
Collaboration with existing healthcare providers and community organizations is key to the facility’s strategy, ensuring that patients receive seamless care and support. “Sentara is going to bring their mobile unit to our Saturday event. We’re just open to anything in the community,” Mendenhall explained, emphasizing the power of partnership in enhancing community health.
Community feedback is essential in guiding the facility’s evolution, with patient input playing a critical role in identifying and addressing the community’s healthcare needs. “Through patient input, we’re able to provide what they need just from our patient assessments and talking with them,” Osborne said, affirming the value of listening to and involving the community in the facility’s ongoing development.
The new PATHS facility in South Boston is more than just a healthcare center; it’s a testament to the power of community, compassion, and commitment to health equity. With a wide range of services, a focus on education and collaboration, and an open invitation for community involvement, PATHS is paving the way to a healthier future for South Boston.
“It’s just a beautiful building. You could just see how happy they were to have that available to them,” Osborne reflected, capturing the essence of the facility’s impact. As the doors open to this modern, comprehensive healthcare haven, the promise of improved health and well-being for all feels closer than ever.
