Southside Medical Center

Southside Medical Center (SMC) is a prominent healthcare institution rooted in the heart of Metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. Established in 1967 as the Atlanta Southside Comprehensive Health Center, it has grown to become a nationally recognized leader in providing accessible and affordable healthcare. SMC operates as a federally qualified health center (FQHC), meaning it receives federal funding to provide primary care services in underserved areas, regardless of a patient's ability to pay. Mission and Values: SMC's core mission is to deliver exceptional primary healthcare and related services to the medically underserved populations of Metropolitan Atlanta. This mission is underpinned by a strong set of core values, encapsulated in the acronym C.A.R.E.S.: Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, and Service. These values guide every aspect of their operations, from patient interactions to community outreach. Comprehensive Services: Southside Medical Center offers a broad spectrum of healthcare services designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals and families. These services include: Primary Care: Comprehensive family medicine for all ages, including adult medicine, pediatrics, and women's health services. This covers general physical exams, sick visits, chronic illness management, vaccinations, and preventive care. Dental Services: A wide range of dental care for all ages, from toddlers to seniors. Services include routine cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings, extractions, comprehensive diagnostic services, and emergency dental care. They also provide pediatric dental care and offer referrals for more specialized procedures like full and partial dentures. Specialized Care: In addition to primary and dental care, SMC provides various specialized services such as: Cardiology Counseling Services Gastroenterology General Surgery Internal Medicine Obstetrics/Gynecology Optometry Podiatry Pharmacy services Ultrasonography and Bone Densitometry Transportation assistance Prescription Assistance Programs Locations and Accessibility: SMC has expanded its footprint beyond its main center at 1046 Ridge Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA, to include several satellite centers throughout Metro Atlanta in areas like Gresham, Norcross, East Point, Riverdale, Hampton, and Forest Park. This multi-site approach ensures that quality healthcare is more readily available to a wider population. The Gresham location, specifically at 2578 Gresham Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, offers dentistry, women's center services, family medicine, and pediatrics. Community Impact and Recognition: Since its inception, Southside Medical Center has played a vital role in improving community health outcomes. Its commitment to serving the medically underserved has earned it national recognition from organizations like the National Association of Community Health Centers. SMC also actively engages in community outreach, offering volunteer opportunities and participating in health-related events to further its mission of empowering health through community and lifestyle support. They also prioritize making healthcare accessible through various payment options, including a Sliding Fee Scale Program for eligible patients, and support for self-pay individuals. Dr. Dexter L. Summerlin, DDS, is associated with Southside Medical Center, providing dental services as part of their comprehensive healthcare offerings.