Just 10 percent are full-paying patients. Still others come for preventative care that includes vaccinations and pap smears. Most of the patients are between 18 and 50 years old. We're providing much needed services for a segment of the community that is underserved. In fact, Harper said a visit to the UCC is not much different than going to a traditional clinic or doctor's office.
Doctors then see patients either at or reasonably close to the exact appointment time.
The greatest advantage to the UCC, Harper said, is that all patient care is provided directly or supervised by an Emory or Morehouse physician. Another important part of the UCC health care team is the physician assistants, nurses and Grady staff. Two of the physician assistants have special training in orthopedics, while another has gynecological training. Two full-time social workers are also on staff to troubleshoot for domestic violence, HIV infection and other social and health issues. Doctors also are able to direct patients to specific clinics if patients have medical problems that require a specialist.