Access to specialty health care has significantly improved in Selma, Alabama, with the grand opening of the new **Selma Podiatry Center**, operated by the **Rural Health Medical Program**. This facility aims to address a critical gap in care for residents in the Black Belt region, particularly those suffering from chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
The **Rural Health Medical Program** has served West Alabama for nearly **47 years**, currently operating **11 health centers** across six counties, including Dallas, Perry, Wilcox, Marengo, Clarke, and Monroe counties. It also deploys a mobile health unit to reach patients in rural and underserved areas where access to healthcare services is limited.
Kesha Dozier Smith, the chief executive officer of the Rural Health Medical Program, emphasized that the organization was established to provide a safety net for uninsured or underinsured patients. The initiative collaborates with hospitals, health departments, urgent care facilities, and private practices to ensure comprehensive care delivery.
Smith highlighted the importance of offering specialty care, particularly podiatry services, in rural communities where residents face a range of barriers. These challenges often include inadequate transportation options, limited clinic availability, and financial constraints. She noted that untreated foot problems can lead to severe complications for patients with chronic illnesses, including infections, hospitalizations, or even amputations if care is not timely.
The new Selma Podiatry Center is designed to provide a dedicated space for patients requiring foot care, especially older adults and individuals managing long-term health conditions. By offering these services closer to home, the center alleviates the need for patients to travel long distances to consult specialists.
The approach to care at the Selma Podiatry Center aims to be comprehensive. Patients can access a range of services within the **Rural Health Medical Program**, including primary care, dental services, behavioral and mental health support via telehealth, chronic care management, and specialty services like podiatry.
For Smith, the mission of the Rural Health Medical Program is deeply personal. She recalls her own experiences growing up in rural Alabama, where families often had to drive **20 to 30 minutes** or more to reach a specialist. This remains a significant challenge for many residents today. Smith noted that financial constraints often force patients to delay medical appointments in favor of fulfilling basic needs like food and housing.
To combat these barriers, the organization connects patients with essential resources, including transportation assistance and care coordination services. The Selma Podiatry Center is now accepting patients, and appointments can be secured by calling **844-736-7629**. Additional information regarding services, locations, and employment opportunities can be found on the Rural Health Medical Program’s website.
This new facility represents a significant advancement in healthcare accessibility for residents of the Black Belt, aiming to improve overall health outcomes in a region that has historically faced numerous challenges in accessing specialty medical care.
