SOUTHERN TENNESSEE Primary Care, a part of the Southern Tennessee Regional Health System, has opened its doors to provide top-notch medical services to the community. Their mission is to make communities healthier. This healthcare hub serves as a lifeline for residents in Manchester and its surrounding areas.
With existing clinics in Winchester, Sewanee, Monteagle, Lynchburg, Tullahoma, and now Manchester, the healthcare system serves a substantial portion of Franklin and Coffee Counties. A total of 25 clinics are strategically spread throughout the region, ensuring residents have easy access to quality healthcare without the need for long commutes.
The clinic’s marketing and communications specialist, Maggie Gipson, shed light on its journey and the core values that set it apart.
“We’re very eager to provide quality care to the Southern Tennessee area,” she shared, “Primary care is something that a lot of people need, and it’s hard to find. So we just wanted to get into that Manchester market and be able to provide that for the community.”
The clinic’s close ties to the community form the cornerstone of its approach. Local providers Nurse Practitioner Sue Richardson, and Doctors Jacqueline Smart and Shon Nolan, bring hometown insight to patient care. Their familiarity with the area enhances their ability to cater to unique community needs, delivering personalized support beyond medical expertise. It’s about understanding the community’s unique needs and providing tailored support.
In August, the clinic hosted an open house that garnered substantial support from the local community. This event provided an invaluable opportunity for residents to meet their healthcare providers face-to-face, fostering a sense of trust and connection.
Community involvement is a priority for Southern Tennessee Primary Care. The clinic actively participates in local events and initiatives, aiming to give back and positively impact. From joining Coffee County in their suicide awareness walk to helping host a back-to-school bash in partnership with their pediatric clinic in Manchester, the clinic actively participates in events that matter to their patients. Their commitment to the community goes beyond medical services; it extends to being a supportive and caring neighbor, and their efforts will continue in the upcoming years.
Gipson said, “As time goes on and the clinic grows, we’ll continue to be a part of different community events. I’m always keeping an eye out for anything that’s up and coming that we can participate in.”
Creating a welcoming environment is vital in ensuring patients feel comfortable seeking care, as many patients can find the experience daunting. From the moment a patient steps through the door, Southern Tennessee Primary Care staff strives to make them feel at ease. A friendly reception, a calming waiting room, and compassionate care from start to finish are all part of the experience.
“It starts from the second that the patient walks into the door. We want to have a friendly, welcoming, nice, calming space. It starts with the receptionist at the front desk, making sure that the patient is welcome and has a positive attitude.
From there, they go back and see the nurses and then to the providers. So just the whole experience — we want it to be a positive experience for that patient.”
Looking ahead, the clinic envisions growth and expansion in Manchester. As a new establishment, they’re eager to welcome more patients and extend their reach within the community. With a pediatric clinic already in place, the future holds promise for even broader healthcare services.
Maggie extends the invitation to the community to experience Southern Tennessee Primary Care’s exceptional care. Located at 1911 Mark McArthur St. in Manchester, appointments can be scheduled by calling (931) 968-3142. Dr. Shon Nolan, Dr. Jacqueline Smart, and Nurse Practitioner Sue Richardson are ready to provide care ranging from chronic condition management to preventive health and immunizations.
The clinic also offers 48-hour communication and an on-call provider to screen more urgent calls after hours. Waiting rooms are disinfected in compliance with the infection control policy to ensure top-notch patient safety.
With Southern Tennessee Primary Care, the residents of Manchester and beyond have a hometown healthcare hero and friend. As they continue to make strides in making communities healthier, the clinic stands as a testament to the power of local care in fostering a healthier, happier community. GN
