Providers will address community health care needs with new, locally-based programs and services
Tufts Medical Center and South End Community Health Center announced today they have formed an affiliation designed to enhance the health care programs and services available to Boston's increasingly diverse and growing South End and Lower Roxbury communities. The comprehensive relationship will expand the availability, accessibility and quality of clinical care provided to community patients by growing and developing services at the Health Center and facilitating quick and easy access to care at Tufts MC, as needed.
"South End Community Health Center is an outstanding health care resource for a vibrant and unique area of our city. They are highly respected for delivering culturally- and linguistically-tailored services and programs," said Michael Wagner, MD, President and CEO of Tufts Medical Center. "It really is a perfect partnership, as Tufts Medical Center has long been a champion of providing high quality care in the community for the convenience and comfort of our patients. We look forward to working together to meet the health care needs of this entire community."
"By adding this strategic alliance with Tufts Medical Center, we will be in a stronger position to serve our patients," said Robert Johnson, President and CEO of South End Community Health Center. "Tufts MC shares our commitment to caring for diverse communities and those who are often underserved by the health care system. Tufts MC is aligned with our vision to expand the depth and breadth of services we offer to South End and Lower Roxbury residents. This new partnership broadens our medical expertise and provides a wider range of choices to our 20,000 patients."
The organizations intend to address health disparities and culture and language barriers by increasing access to primary care, geriatric services and women's health programs at SECHC, and tackling chronic health issues - including obesity, diabetes and asthma - in the South End and surrounding communities. Tufts Medical Center plans to embed specialists at the Health Center for the convenience of patients and the coordination of care. The providers also will explore the development of teaching opportunities in the community health center environment, as well as facilitating the Health Center's patients' participation in clinical trials. Furthermore, Tufts MC and the Health Center will form a joint management committee to work on developing a multi-year strategic plan for the affiliation.
"Over the years, we have sought to cultivate relationships with top notch organizations that share our values and priorities," said W. Karl McLaurin, Chairman of the South End Community Health Center Board of Trustees. "Our affiliation with Tufts MC opens up new and exciting possibilities for the future of patient care at the Health Center."
"There is great enthusiasm at the Health Center for this new partnership," said Beth K. Mazyck, MD, FAAFP, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of South End Community Health Center. "It is our goal to be the go-to health care provider for all residents in these important neighborhoods. Enhancing our current array of excellent services with the specialty expertise of Tufts Medical Center makes us an even stronger medical home for the community."