The Good Samaritan Health Center (GSHC) was founded in 1998 by Dr. Bill Warren, a pediatrician who envisioned a faith-based clinic that would provide quality medical care to Atlanta’s uninsured / underinsured populations. The clinic is located at 239 Alexander Street N.W., near Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta and provides an extensive array of services, including medical, dental, social, health education, and counseling. A diverse group of patients access the GSHC, consisting of recent immigrants, the working poor, the homeless, and destitute. Although the clinic operates on a sliding fee scale model, only 20% of its expenses are paid through patient fees; and if a patient cannot pay, they are still provided care. Up to 80% of its operating expenses are through private donations and volunteer work by physicians, PAs, NPs, dentists, and other volunteers. Follow this link to watch a short video about the Good Samaritan Health Center (this requires the free Real Player and a high speed connection). Follow this link for a story in Emory-Health on the Center

The GSHC’s accessible, quality medical care has led to growing popularity and an increasing demand for its services. In 1999, the clinic provided care for 6,682 patients and 22,400 patient visits in 2009. Due to demands for clinic appointments exceeding their capacity, collaboration with the Emory PA program was seen as a viable way to provide an extended-hours clinic on Saturdays, and to provide students with opportunities to learn medicine, cultural sensitivity, and social responsibility. These Saturday sessions will be staffed by a variety of volunteers, and students will see patients under the supervision of physicians and PA Program faculty.