February 2023 Newsletter

Published by

Susan Metts

February 24, 2023

Recognizing Black History Month

All are equal in the eyes of God.

February is Black History Month, and this month and every month, NeighborHealth is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care for patients of all races and ethnicities. It’s hard to believe that less than 100 years ago, our Black neighbors had to fight for equal access to medical care and for the desegregation of healthcare services.

NeighborHealth is committed to addressing health inequities and disparities by improving access to care and helping patients navigate healthcare complexities. In 2022, 61% of our patients identified as minorities, with 25% as Black, and we proudly cared for neighbors from more than 80 countries.

“NeighborHealth proudly cares for the underserved without regard for race, insurance status or any other factor. Before coming to our clinic, many of our patients have never experienced the personalized, quality care they deserve. I am proud to serve on the board of directors of this incredible organization – and to continue seeing our team work to address healthcare inequality in our community.”
— Larry Somerville

Emily Watkins, BSN, Promoted to Chief Operating Officer

We’re proud to announce that Emily Watkins, BSN, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer of NeighborHealth. Emily joined the NeighborHealth family in 2018 as a part-time nurse balancing her passion for meeting the healthcare needs of the underserved with caring for her young family. Emily’s contributions to NeighborHealth and her clinical and operational leadership skills grew exponentially over the years amidst significant expansion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Emily helped keep the clinic running smoothly while also introducing drive-thru testing and vaccination. Her leadership has been instrumental in assisting NeighborHealth to maintain exceptional clinical quality and operational efficiency while building and strengthening relationships with community partners.

In her new role, she is responsible for overseeing all organizational operations– as well as partnering with the CEO and Board of Directors in setting the strategic direction for NeighborHealth while maintaining her unwavering commitment to patients and her passion for serving the underserved.

“Emily has demonstrated during her time with NeighborHealth Center that she is incredibly passionate about the healthcare needs of the community we serve. She leads with humility and genuine care for the staff and goes above and beyond in building relationships with strategic partners. I am so grateful that Emily has chosen to share her passion, talents, and skills at NeighborHealth Center.” explains Daniel Lipparelli, NeighborHealth CEO.

Back Together Again! Our Clinic Expansion & Move Are Complete

Earlier this month, our Women’s Health team moved into our new Blue Ridge Clinic office space, and we are so grateful to all be together again to serve the needs of our patients and this community. We are no longer seeing patients at our Lake Boone Trail office. This new office has been a gift from God and our generous community donors – take a look at our new space and make an appointment today!

Growing for Good We [Still] Need Your Help!

While our expansion is now complete, we still have a goal to meet as we reach the home stretch of our Growing for Good campaign. Please help us reach our $500,000 goal by contributing today! Your generous donation can help us continue meeting the healthcare needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. We are thankful for your support!

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