Filling a Primary Need in our Community for Primary Care

Medical visits are often associated with being sick or hurt. While it’s true that medical providers can help treat illnesses and injuries when they occur, primary care providers also play another important role — helping you maintain good health and prevent disease.

That’s why Cempa Community Care offers those in the greater Chattanooga community access to primary care services. Through Cempa, community members can receive a full spectrum of preventive care, including routine checkups and help managing chronic conditions.

Why do you need a primary care provider? With football season right around the corner, consider this metaphor: A primary care provider, often called a PCP, is somewhat like a quarterback for your health. 

A QB surveys the scene, calls the plays, and hands off the ball to other players when needed. Your PCP does the same — your provider will keep track of your overall physical and mental health, determine what tests, vaccines, and treatments you need, and refer you to specialists if necessary.

Getting the healthcare services you need can sometimes be quite confusing and a little overwhelming, especially if you need to see multiple providers. That’s where a PCP can come into play, directing your healthcare and helping you stay on track.

“Our mission is to champion health communities,” said Amy Eldridge, BBA-HCM, Director of Clinical Operations at Cempa. “Providing community members with access to primary healthcare is a key part of that mission. We are committed to offering high-quality care to anyone in our community who needs it.”

Primary Care Services at Cempa
Accessing Cempa’s primary care services is simple. Our Primary Care Clinic is open by appointment Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays. 

New patients can make an appointment by calling (423) 265-2273, option 2, and existing patients can call or sign up online. Cempa provides care for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured patients, using a sliding fee scale based on income and family size.   

When you think about a PCP, you probably think of a doctor. Your PCP may be a physician, but you can also receive primary care services from an advanced care provider, such as a physician assistant or nurse practitioner. 

At Cempa, we have a full team of providers offering primary care, led by Michael Davis, MD, Medical Director. These providers offer comprehensive healthcare services to both treat medical conditions and prevent them. 

Our primary care services include:

• Diagnostic testing like bloodwork 
• Health screenings 
• Management of chronic health conditions
• Preventive care
• Routine checkups
• Vaccinations
• Women’s health services

In addition to these services, patients receiving primary care through Cempa also have access to on-site pharmacy services, family planning, and behavioral healthcare. When other services are needed, such as mammograms or other cancer screenings, we can connect you with other resources in the community to get the care you need.

“Primary care services play such an important role in helping each of us stay healthy and well,” Eldridge said. “Knowing that we’re providing our community with access to these vital services and preventive care is an immense source of pride for our Cempa team. We’re here for our community.”

Call (423) 265-2273, option 2, to learn more and schedule a new patient appointment.