It’s simple for many of us to find a primary care physician or advanced practice provider that we trust and feel comfortable with. By booking online or making a quick phone call, we can make an appointment and feel confident about the level of care we will receive. We know how and where to get the help we need when we need it.
Many people lack access to care, making their path to high-quality care more challenging. It could be because they don’t have insurance, are unable to pay for medical services or don’t have a way to get to their appointments. This isn’t how it should be.
At Wellstar, we believe every person deserves to live their healthiest life, regardless of their circumstances. The Wellstar Center for Health Equity has partnered with local clinics like Someone Cares to make healthcare accessible to everyone in our communities.
A safe and welcoming space
People who rely on Someone Cares include those who are underinsured or have difficulty accessing healthcare due to transportation or financial issues. The clinic is a one-stop shop that offers care at a brick-and-mortar location in Marietta. Services include:
- Primary care
- Addiction treatment
- Behavioral healthcare
- Lab services, including confidential HIV/AIDS testing
- Onsite pharmacies
- Other diagnostic testing
- Treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
In addition to their Marietta clinic, Someone Cares has two mobile units. They travel to communities throughout metro Atlanta to provide HIV and STD testing, health screenings, health education and vaccinations. It’s a convenient option that allows people to get the care they need, where and when they need it.
Someone Cares also offers specialized services for individuals in the transgender community, including gender-affirming hormone therapy.
How Wellstar supports Someone Cares
Wellstar and Someone Cares began their partnership in 2023 when the organization was applying to become a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
FQHCs are community-based centers that receive funds from the federal government to provide primary healthcare services in underserved areas. FQHCs typically work with a hospital or health system to ensure patients have easier access to services that are unavailable in the primary care setting, such as inpatient behavioral health services.
Someone Cares will officially become a FQHC in February 2025. The designation allows them to expand their services, further supporting vulnerable communities.
Each partnership is unique
Someone Cares is one of about a half-dozen clinics in the Wellstar Community Clinic Network. The Wellstar Center for Health Equity launched the network eight years ago to serve the most under-resourced populations in our communities better.
Each partnership is unique and customized to the community-based clinic’s needs. A few examples of the services we provide include:
- Lab services
- Medical imaging
- Patient education
- Reduced-cost outpatient medical care and health screenings
- Telehealth services
We’re grateful for our Community Clinic Network partners, who help Wellstar create a healthier Georgia for all. Together, we’re making a difference in people’s lives across the state.
Learn more about the Wellstar Center for Health Equity.
