Caring for Albany: Samaritan InterCommunity Health Clinic

A recently opened medical clinic in Albany marks a significant step forward in health care delivery. Recognizing that many aspects of life affect health and well-being, the clinic takes a holistic approach to address the various needs of InterCommunity Health Network Coordinated Care Organization members in Albany and surrounding areas.

Holistic Approach to Health Care

Samaritan InterCommunity Health Clinic leverages a variety of diverse resources to provide comprehensive, personalized services that meet the individual needs of patients covered by IHN-CCO. By adopting a community-centric model, the clinic aims to uplift and empower patients while increasing access to health care.

“Our team strives to meet people where they are and address a broad spectrum of needs in one location,” said Cosimo Storniolo, MD, a primary care doctor at Samaritan InterCommunity Health Clinic – Albany. “We know some patients face unique challenges such as housing instability, food insecurity, mental health issues and substance abuse, and we seek to provide or refer to services that can help patients in their lives improve their health and well-being.”

Comprehensive Services Through Community Partnerships

The clinic partners with community organizations including shelters and legal aid to better understand and address the needs of all its patients, ensuring that no one is left behind. This multidisciplinary approach creates a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where all patients feel safe and supported.

One of the clinic’s key strengths is its ability to facilitate smooth transitions between providers and resources. For instance, if a patient needs assistance with rent or utilities, a community health worker can be brought in to provide support. This coordinated approach helps patients achieve their health goals more effectively by ensuring they have access to necessary resources.

“At any one visit, we could imagine someone coming and maybe not needing the medical provider that day, but needing behavioral health or the pharmacist,” Dr. Storniolo said. “Some patients have spent two hours here, seeing three or four different people within the same visit.”

Building Strong Patient-Provider Relationships

The clinic’s care model emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships between patients and providers. By understanding each patient’s circumstances and priorities, the clinic tailors its services to meet their specific needs. This flexible approach acknowledges that factors like housing and mental health are sometimes more pressing than medical issues and must be addressed to improve overall health outcomes.

“We strive to be incredibly open and welcoming, reducing barriers and making it a place for healing,” said Melissa McPherson, a nurse practitioner at Samaritan InterCommunity Health Clinic – Albany. “It’s about the patient and their needs, addressing what’s most important in that moment.”

Located next to Samaritan Albany General Hospital, the clinic benefits from its proximity to essential services such as a laboratory and X-rays. This convenient location also allows for easy referrals from the Emergency Department, helping patients establish ongoing care with a primary care provider.

“My message to patients is if you have experienced difficulties with health care, I want you to try out our clinic,” said McPherson. “We understand that life happens, and we are not going to turn you away. You are always welcome here.”

To learn more, visit samhealth.org /InterCommunityClinic.