Get to know Davion Alexander, Care Coordinator at NeighborHealth Center
Davion works with patients who face challenges beyond their physical health. These challenges are often related to social determinants of health (SDOH), such as having access to housing, food, transportation, as well as other socioeconomic factors, all of which can affect a patient’s health and quality of life. Here, we take the opportunity to get to know Davion and what drives him to serve our patients and community through his role at NeighborHealth.
Q: Where are you from?
A: Born and raised in Charlotte, N.C., I graduated from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2021 with a biology degree. After graduation, I wanted healthcare experience before pursuing a medical degree, so I applied for a MedServe fellowship and found NeighborHealth Center. MedServe partners with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to connect recent graduates with non-profits for clinical hours and community outreach.
Q: What is your typical day like at NeighborHealth?
A: After serving in various roles through my fellowship, I was hired as a full-time care coordinator in February 2023. I spend my days working with high-risk patients to support them in achieving their best health – whether it’s through submitting referrals for specialty care and services; performing risk assessments to identify and address social determinants of health; or providing education on when to use the emergency department. Many of these patients have chronic health conditions or specific health goals, and my role is to connect them with the appropriate resources to improve their health, well-being, and life circumstances.
Q: Why were you driven to pursue a position with a non-profit like NeighborHealth Center?
A: I grew up in an underrepresented community and saw family members struggle due to food insecurity and lack of education. From there, I developed a sense of responsibility to help others through service and leadership, and a passion for non-profit work.
Q: Why is it important to address these Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) with patients?
A: Clinical care does not stop at the patient’s chief complaint. Many SDOH-related factors drive patients to NeighborHealth Center – lack of education about health and the healthcare system, homelessness, and food insecurity. By connecting patients with our partner organizations to address their SDOH issues, we can help them improve their health and lives. Amazing organizations like the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, The Salvation Army, Diaper Train, Oak City Cares, Raleigh Rescue Mission, and The No Woman No Girl Initiative are just a few of the community partners that can help provide patients with the food, housing, clothing, and hygiene products they need to live a healthy life.
Q: Why are you proud of your work at NeighborHealth Center?
A: The work of a care coordinator aligns with NeighborHealth Center’s mission – to provide whole-person care and serve underrepresented communities – in a practical way. Connecting patients with life-changing resources is important and necessary. When patients open up to me about these sensitive life topics, it’s a privilege, and it brings me great joy to help others. I have seen firsthand patients who have directly benefited from the work we are doing, and that is a powerful motivator.
