In a world where health care often feels like a race against time, what if the most important aspect of healing wasn’t about the ailment at all? Martha Henley, the CEO of Unity Medical Center (UMC), poses this question at the center of the business’s philosophy. Henley, one of Manchester’s visionary leaders, believes that true health care is far bigger than treating physical ailments. It encompasses the mental, emotional, and even social well-being of each person who walks through the door.
For Henley, health care shouldn’t be just about fixing what’s broken; it should be about building what’s missing.
With their guiding principle, “Your health matters,” Henley and her team strive to provide personal and holistic health care. In an era when telehealth care might feel disconnected from personal care, Henley has created a culture where patients feel seen, understood, and fully supported. Building a community of care When you meet Henley, it’s easy to see how her values have inspired both her career and the community itself. Her love for others is as much a part of her identity as her job at Unity Medical Center. And it’s in the small, often unnoticed moments that her impact is most meaningful. Proactive partnerships and empowerment When it comes to health care, Henley makes it accessible and proactive, partnering with local nonprofits, and volunteering her time to initiatives like Daily Bread Mobile Meals and Coffee Cares.
Daily Bread delivers hot meals to those who can’t cook for themselves. Coffee Cares is a local nonprofit that raises funds to help people with medical bills so a single medical emergency doesn’t devastate a family’s financial stability. Through these efforts, Henley makes even the most vulnerable members of the community feel seen and supported.
“We want to be sure everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to care,” she said. “Whether that’s through a meal, medical support, or simply listening to someone’s concerns, we’re there.” Creating space for mental health One of Henley’s most groundbreaking projects is UMC’s initiative promoting mental health and addiction awareness. Witnessing local residents actively participate in the program, master their conditions, and achieve meaningful improvements in their well-being brought her immense joy. She said it truly highlights the positive impact their efforts can make in people’s lives.
Seeing the transformation in people who participated in these programs is one of Henley’s most fulfilling achievements – further proving that health care is all-encompassing and far bigger than mere treatment for illness. Leading with heart and balance In a role as demanding as hers, Henley has had to learn to balance caring for others and caring for herself over the years.
“I’ve learned that prioritizing self-care is essential — not just for me, but for everyone around me. I make it a point to set boundaries and carve out time for things that recharge me, like spending quality time with my husband and children, enjoying my hobbies, or practicing mindfulness and meditation,” she explained.
Henley is an advocate for mindfulness and meditation, and she leads by example, encouraging her team at UMC to take time for themselves. Whether she’s attending local events, working behind the scenes on health care policies, or simply spending time with her husband and children, she understands the importance of balance in creating a sustainable life. She also shares this philosophy with her staff.
“I also believe in promoting a supportive culture at Unity Medical Center, where we encourage our staff to take breaks and focus on their well-being. I remind myself and my team that when we take care of ourselves, we’re better able to care for our patients. Ultimately, self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity for providing sustainable, compassionate care.” The future of healing Looking forward, Henley sees tremendous opportunities for growth and healing within the Manchester community.
“We’re not only addressing immediate health care needs, but also working to tackle the deeper, often unseen factors that impact our community’s well-being, like access to resources, mental health, and education,” she said.”
She continued, “I truly believe that by standing together and offering compassionate, high-quality care, we can make a lasting difference. My goal is for Unity Medical Center to be a trusted partner in every person’s health journey, ensuring that everyone in Manchester has the care, support, and kindness they need to thrive.”
She also plans to build relationships with local schools, businesses, and nonprofits to create a network of support that uplifts the entire community.
For those looking to get involved in making a difference, Henley advises “listening actively.” Take the time to understand what your community needs, and then find ways to help. Whether it’s volunteering your time, educating yourself, or advocating for resources, there are so many ways to contribute.
Henley’s legacy in Manchester is in the programs she’s created, the lives she’s touched, and the culture of care she has created. She’s built a community where compassion is the solution and where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can find support and healing. Henley is resolute in her belief that small acts of kindness can transform individuals and entire communities. GN
