Access to specialty health care has improved in Selma, Alabama, with the 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, especially for those dealing with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
The Rural Health Medical Program has been serving West Alabama for nearly 47 years and currently manages 11 health centers across six counties, which include Dallas, Perry, Wilcox, Marengo, Clarke, and Monroe. In addition, the organization operates a mobile health unit designed to reach patients in rural and underserved areas.
Kesha Dozier Smith, the chief executive officer of the Rural Health Medical Program, emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing a safety net for patients who may lack insurance or are underinsured. She noted that specialty care, particularly podiatry, is essential in rural communities where residents often face transportation barriers, limited clinic availability, and financial strain.
Leaders in health care highlight that untreated foot problems can escalate quickly for patients with chronic illnesses, leading to infections, hospitalizations, or even amputations if not addressed promptly. The new Selma Podiatry Center offers a specialized space for patients requiring foot care, focusing particularly on older adults and individuals with long-term health conditions.
By establishing this center, officials aim to provide podiatry services closer to home, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances to consult specialists. Smith stated that the organization’s approach integrates multiple health services, allowing patients to access primary care, dental services, behavioral and mental health support via telehealth, chronic care management, and now, specialty services like podiatry, all within one system.
For Smith, this mission holds personal significance. Growing up in rural Alabama, she experienced firsthand the challenges of traveling 20 to 30 minutes or more to see a specialist, a reality that still affects many families today. She highlighted that many patients often delay necessary care because they must choose between medical appointments and meeting essential needs such as food and housing.
To tackle these challenges, the Rural Health Medical Program actively connects patients with resources, including transportation assistance and care coordination. The Selma Podiatry Center is now open to accepting patients, with appointments available by calling 844-736-7629. Additional information regarding services, locations, and employment opportunities can be found on the organization’s website.
The launch of this facility marks a significant step forward in enhancing health care access for residents of the Black Belt region, supporting the well-being of individuals in a community that has long faced barriers to necessary medical services.