Eastern Shore Rural Health System, Inc. (ESRH) is a well-established
Community Health Center Network serving the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Founded in 1975, it emerged from a community vision to enhance healthcare accessibility in the region. ESRH is committed to providing comprehensive, integrated, and affordable primary healthcare services, including medical, oral (dental), and
behavioral health, to everyone in the community, irrespective of their financial situation.
ESRH operates multiple locations, including several medical centers, numerous dental locations, and an urgent care center, ensuring broad coverage across the rural Eastern Shore. Beyond core medical and
dental care, their services are extensive and include health education, assistance with obtaining prescriptions through their Pharmacy Assistance Program, digital X-ray and lab work, and travel immunizations. They also provide specialized programs such as chronic care management, a diabetes prevention program, and foreign travel preparation counseling.
A key aspect of ESRH's approach is its commitment to being a Patient-Centered Medical Home. This model emphasizes a team-based, culturally appropriate approach to care, where providers work collaboratively with patients to manage their health needs, coordinate care across the healthcare system, and proactively plan for their well-being. This approach aims to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care and improve patient satisfaction.
ESRH also offers vital support services, including case management, PrEP navigation, and insurance assistance to help patients enroll in programs like Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid, and FAMIS. They offer a sliding fee discount program based on income and family size to ensure affordability.
The organization is deeply integrated into the community, participating in school-based dental programs and offering a mobile dental trailer for outreach. They also advocate for legislative priorities that protect programs like 340B, which helps low-income patients access affordable medicines, and secure federal and state funding for community health centers. Their mission is to create a healthy Eastern Shore through access to quality care for all, with a vision to be the provider of choice, employer of choice, and partner of choice, guided by values of compassion, access, respect, and empowerment.
