Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett (GSHCG) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare and dental services to uninsured and underinsured individuals in Gwinnett County, Georgia, and surrounding areas. Established in 2005, GSHCG operates two full-service clinics offering medical, dental, and pharmacy services across the lifespan of patients. The organization has served over 58,437 individuals through more than 325,000 patient encounters, delivering care valued between $10 million and $13 million annually.

Mission and Vision

GSHCG's mission is to demonstrate the love of Christ by providing quality, affordable, and accessible health and dental services to the poor and uninsured. The organization aims to eliminate health disparities for underserved populations and reduce the demand for non-emergent medical services in emergency rooms.

Industry Significance

As a safety-net clinic, GSHCG plays a crucial role in addressing the healthcare needs of uninsured and underinsured individuals in Gwinnett County. By offering comprehensive medical and dental services, the organization alleviates the burden on emergency departments and contributes to the overall health and well-being of the community.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Provide Quality Low-Cost Healthcare: Offer affordable primary healthcare and dental services to uninsured individuals, aiming to eliminate health disparities.

Reduce Emergency Room Dependency: Decrease the demand for non-emergent medical services in emergency rooms, thereby reducing the cost of indigent care on the public healthcare system.

Support Future Healthcare Professionals: Serve as a training ground for medical and dental students, preparing them to serve underserved communities.

Areas of Specialization

Primary Healthcare Services: Routine medical care, chronic disease management, and preventive services.

Dental Services: General dentistry, including preventive care, restorative procedures, and extractions.

Pharmacy Services: Access to affordable medications for patients.

Key Technologies Utilized

Electronic Health Records (EHR): To maintain accurate patient records and streamline care coordination.

Telemedicine: To expand access to healthcare services, especially for patients unable to visit in person.

Primary Markets Targeted

Uninsured and Underinsured Individuals: Residents of Gwinnett County and surrounding areas lacking health insurance.

Low-Income Families: Households with limited financial resources requiring affordable healthcare options.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

GSHCG operates as a nonprofit organization, relying on a combination of patient fees, grants, and donations to fund its operations. In 2017, the clinic's annual budget was approximately $3.2 million, with patient fees covering about half of the operating costs.

Recent Funding Rounds

In February 2024, GSHCG received a grant from the Georgia Baptist Health Care Ministry Foundation.

Notable Investors

The organization has received support from various donors and foundations, including the Georgia Baptist Health Care Ministry Foundation.

Utilization of Capital

Funds are utilized to expand and enhance healthcare services, acquire medical equipment, support facility improvements, and provide training for healthcare professionals.

Pipeline Development

Key Initiatives

Screening and Prevention Annex (SPA): In April 2025, GSHCG opened a new SPA at its East Gwinnett facility. This annex is dedicated to screening patients, treating infectious diseases, providing childhood vaccinations, and isolating patients with contagious respiratory symptoms to protect well patients.

Access Academy: GSHCG has been authorized to offer a certificate-granting medical assisting school, aiming to train individuals from low-income or minority households for careers in healthcare.

Target Conditions

Infectious Diseases: Including COVID-19, influenza, and other communicable diseases.

Chronic Diseases: Such as diabetes and hypertension, through ongoing management and education.

Anticipated Milestones

Expansion of Services: Continued growth in patient visits and the introduction of new healthcare programs.

Educational Programs: Launch and operation of the Access Academy to train future healthcare professionals.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Patient Management Systems: Customized software solutions to manage patient appointments, medical records, and billing processes.

Significant Scientific Methods

Community Health Assessments: Regular evaluations to identify health disparities and inform service delivery.

Preventive Care Programs: Evidence-based initiatives aimed at reducing the incidence of chronic diseases among patients.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Shameka Allen, MBA: Associate Director, contributing to operational improvements and strategic initiatives.

Greg Johnson: Director of Development and Marketing, responsible for fundraising and community outreach efforts.

Professional Backgrounds

Shameka Allen: Brings expertise in nonprofit management and healthcare operations, focusing on enhancing service delivery and organizational growth.

Greg Johnson: Specializes in development and marketing strategies, aiming to increase community engagement and financial support for the organization.

Key Contributions

Shameka Allen: Implemented operational improvements leading to increased efficiency and service capacity.

Greg Johnson: Developed successful fundraising campaigns and strengthened partnerships with local organizations.

Market Overview and Competitor Analysis

Gwinnett County is the second-largest county in Georgia, with an estimated population of 920,000 and a projected increase to 1.35 million by 2040. In 2016, 24% of the county's residents were uninsured for healthcare, and 11% of households lived at or below the poverty level.

Competitors

Gwinnett Medical Center: A comprehensive healthcare provider offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and specialized treatments.

Northside Hospital Gwinnett: Provides extensive medical services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In April 2022, GSHCG partnered with Project HOPE to increase vaccine access among minorities in Georgia, aiming to enhance vaccine confidence and adoption in underserved communities.

Operational Insights

GSHCG differentiates itself by offering low-cost, comprehensive healthcare and dental services specifically tailored for uninsured and underinsured individuals. The organization emphasizes holistic care, addressing both physical and spiritual needs, and operates with a strong community focus.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Expansion of Services: Continue to grow patient visits and introduce new healthcare programs to meet community needs.

Educational Initiatives: Launch and operate the Access Academy to train future healthcare professionals, enhancing the organization's capacity to serve underserved populations.

Community Engagement: Strengthen partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders to enhance service delivery and community impact.

Future Business Directions

Facility Expansion: Explore opportunities to expand clinic locations to reach more individuals in need.

Program Development: Develop additional programs focused on preventive care and chronic disease management.

Opportunities for Expansion

Mobile Health Clinics: Implement mobile units to provide healthcare services in remote or underserved areas.

Telehealth Services: Expand telemedicine offerings to increase access to care for patients unable to visit in person.

Positioning for Future Objectives

GSHCG's commitment to quality care, community engagement, and educational initiatives positions it well to achieve its future objectives and continue making a significant impact in the region.