In just a few short months, the much-needed extra space has enabled the health center to dramatically expand access to affordable primary and dental care services for Near Eastside residents:

• Three doctors have joined the health center’s staff. Dr. Devonne Mullis (internal medicine/pediatrics), Dr. Amanda Beach (pediatrics), and Dr. Matthew Overley (family practice) are now accepting new patients.
• Rachel Hawkins, DDS, joined the dental team. Dental hygiene care is also offered five days a week.
• As a part of HealthNet’s integrated care model, Behavioral Health Services at People’s expanded to include two patient navigators, adolescent/pediatric psychiatrist Gina Laite, adult psychiatrist Dr. Cathy Herod, and child psychologist Dr. Robin Kohli, in addition to therapists Scott Kahler and Dr. Yvonne Oropeza. They are at People’s at least 1-2 days a week, as well as serving at other HealthNet locations.

It’s amazing the difference a year can make! The health center had outgrown its space nearly five years ago, in response to the needs of this community. Thanks to capital campaign donors and $5.3 million in federal stimulus funds, the new, environmentally “green” health center is expected to serve 11,000 patients and delivering 46,000 patient visits per year at capacity.

Congratulations to the People’s staff on a successful first year in your new home. Best wishes for many more to come!

Relive the moment…Check out photos from the health center’s grand opening celebration!

Did you know? Many community health centers like People’s desperately need to expand, but can’t. The Health Centers program faces real threats to its future as a result of actions already taken by, and proposals being considered, in Congress. Read more about the issue and how you can make a difference for the future health of our city.