Join us on September 23, 2023, for the 2nd Annual Hispanic Festival – Community Health And Resource Fair! The event will take place from 11 am – 3 pm at Friendship Park in Hattiesburg, MS. Vendors, door prizes, music, food, health screenings, and more. For more information, contact Shanell Williamson at 601-441-9333 or Edith Fuentes at 662-312-9186.

SEMRHI is living proof that quality stands the test of time. We’re celebrating our commitment to care over the last four decades by giving our brand an updated and fresh look that will carry us into a bright future. Cheers to the next forty-four years.

SEMRHI will host its annual Free Check-up Day in observance of National Women’s Health Week (NWHW) on Wednesday, May 17, at the Women’s Health Center located at 62 Old Airport Road, Hattiesburg, MS, from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Free health screenings will also be provided at SEMRHI clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall, ALL WEEK, May 15-19.

NWHW is led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health to encourage all women to be as healthy as possible. According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, more than 700,000 Mississippi adults have high blood pressure (hypertension), and thousands more may be at risk. High blood pressure increases a person’s risk of heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the United States. It can also lead to kidney disease, blindness, and mental impairment.

As a community of health centers and clinics, SEMRHI is deeply rooted in grassroots efforts to reduce health disparities. Though preventive healthcare is often overlooked, it is the key to preventing the onset of many chronic conditions that plague Mississippians, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. For this reason, SEMRHI has reached out to numerous local and community partners to promote the event in hopes of attracting the medically underserved.

It’s official, SEMRHI is rebranding!  New look, same mission: making quality healthcare accessible for everyone.  Over the next few months, we will introduce the recent changes to the visual and story aspects of our SEMRHI brand to our communities.  We hope you love the new brand as much as we do, and we appreciate your assistance in ensuring an exciting transition to the new brand.

In the meantime, enjoy two of our new thirty-second commercial spots that are currently running on TV and social media (links below).

Moments Like These – https://youtu.be/Hj0nG2RU_hQ
Patient Testimonial – https://youtu.be/2vDtLGeN9kE

SEMRHI rolls out the newest bus to join the mobile clinic fleet!  Click here to view the feature from WDAM News 7!

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) Announces Mrs. Janice Robinson, MPH, CEPD, As Chief Executive Officer

HATTIESBURG, MS – January 24, 2023, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Janice Robinson to serve as Chief Executive Officer.  As an experienced healthcare leader, Janice assumed leadership responsibilities Monday, January 23, 2023.

Appointed Chief Operations Officer in 2021, Janice has worked to provide the leadership, management, and vision necessary to ensure that SeMRHI has the proper operational controls, administrative and reporting procedures, and people systems in place to effectively grow the organization and to ensure financial strength and operating efficiency. During her tenure at SeMRHI, she has also served in other roles, including Chief Human Resources Officer and Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

Board Chair Karen Speed says, “After a one-year journey, we are excited to officially announce the new CEO, Janice Robinson.  The Board and I are so grateful to Kaye Ray and the role she served during this process, and we are confident that Janice will lead SeMRHI even higher in carrying out the company’s mission, vision, and values.”

Janice has nearly two decades of healthcare experience. She holds a Master of Public Health degree (MPH) and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi (USM).  She began her career with SeMRHI in 2007 as Director of Marketing and Public Relations.  As a dedicated member of several local/state boards and committees, Janice has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes and continues to support the mission of SeMRHI in providing access to affordable, quality, primary and preventive health care to our communities in a patient-centered, safe, and compassionate environment.

As CEO, Janice will continue to direct and oversee the day-to-day operations and functioning of SeMRHI while providing leadership for carrying out the policies and decisions of the Board of Directors.  She will also supervise the corporation’s facilities, employees, programs, budget, and services.  One of her goals is to strive for SeMRHI to be recognized as a leader in community healthcare among the patients served.

Janice is married to Mr. Johnathan Robinson, Sr. of Petal, MS, and they have four children, Candace, Kiesha, Johnathan Jr., and Jeremiah, and five grandchildren.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) And Area Development Partnership of Greater Hattiesburg Holds A Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony For New Mobile Health Unit!

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (October 4, 2022) – Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) and the Area Development Partnership of Greater Hattiesburg will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiling a new mobile health unit on Tuesday, October 25th at 10 am at Hattiesburg Family Health Center, 66 Old Airport Road, Hattiesburg, MS 39401.

SeMRHI serves nearly 40,000 patients in its’ communities each year—a number that is increasing due to the nation’s primary care infrastructure of Americans who lack access to primary care services. This not only highlights the essence of Community Health Centers but also celebrates the efforts of national and community organizations working with partners and volunteers to improve awareness of key health issues often overlooked.

According to www.kff.org, 351,794 Mississippians were uninsured in 2018. For this reason, SeMRHI’s mission remains essential because primary health care remains an opposition in many parts of Mississippi. Although preventive healthcare is often overlooked, it plays a vital role in preventing the onset of many chronic conditions that infect Mississippians, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and now COVID.

Many Mississippians live in remote and underserved communities with a lack of healthcare access and transportation. This investment recently featured in an Arizona showcase, will provide a place for the community to receive dental care, health screenings, vaccinations, physicals, and other medical services in Covington, Forrest, Lamar, Pearl River, and Perry counties.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) and the Area Development Partnership – Greater Hattiesburg, MS, will present a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony and a tour of the mobile unit to follow.

https://www.wdam.com/2022/10/24/semrhi-rolls-out-mobile-clinic-reach-underserved-communities/?fbclid=IwAR2bOWwx1oYFOLrsYY10pXTI1zTVfiFUKtvJryckZUlcd1cUZUKekvUkoJo

Now’s the time to review and compare your Medicare plan options for 2023. Is your current plan still the best one for your healthcare needs? There may be another plan that works better for you! Call us at (601) 544-4163 ext. 4 for a FREE consultation.

Monday, August 8 – Friday, August 12, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) will offer free health and dental screenings in observation of National Health Center Week at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall.  No appointment is necessary!  Dental screenings will be available from August 8 – August 10, 8 am – 12 pm, only at the Hattiesburg Community Dental Center.

SeMRHI will also host a Milk Bank Drive and Car Seat Check-up on August 11, 2022, from 12 pm – 3 pm at the Women’s Health Center.  The Women’s Health Center is located at 62 Old Airport Road, Hattiesburg, MS 39401.

For more information, call (601) 658-0058.

#NHCW2022 #ValueCHCs

National Women’s Health Week (NWHW) is a time to encourage women to learn more about ways to prioritize their health, including staying current on health screenings and visits.  It is essential for all women and girls, especially those with underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and women 65 years and older, to take care of their health TODAY!

Join SeMRHI as we celebrate National Women’s Health Week, May 9 – May 13, 2022!  Free health screenings, health information, and gift bags – while supplies last!  Free screenings will be provided at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall.  For more information, call 601-658-0058.

We are excited! Lamar County School Board authorizes SeMRHI to provide clinics for student medical needs. Click the link below to read more.

https://www.hubcityspokes.com/local-content-schools/lamar-co-school-board-authorizes-semrhi-provide-clinics-student-medical-needs#sthash.L2bopIZ5.dpbs

Join us this March 17th from 11 am – 2 pm at Seminary Family Health Center. We will be partnering with the MS SHINE Project to give away fresh fruit, cases of bottled water, at-home COVID test kits, and N95 masks. The COVID vaccine will also be available to those ages 5 and older. To learn more, call 601-722-3208.

World Social Work Day is celebrated each 3rd Tuesday in March to highlight social workers’ hard work and diligence.  Thank you, social workers, for the quality care you provide to our patients in Southeast Mississippi!

Dental Assistants Week recognizes the important and personal role dental assistants play in the health and happiness of their patients and the entire dental team.  Thank you, dental assistants, for the quality dental care you provide to our patients in Southeast Mississippi!

National Dentist’s Day is celebrated each year on March 6th.  Thank you, dentists, for the quality dental/oral care you provide to the patients we serve in Southeast Mississippi!

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) announces the passing of CEO, Dr. Geroldean Dyse
Board of Directors name Kaye Ray, former SeMRHI CEO, as the interim CEO

Hattiesburg, MS (January 17, 2022) – Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) announces the passing of their illustrious leader, Dr. Geroldean Dyse. Dr. Dyse passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022.

Dr. Dyse began her 41-year career with SeMRHI as an LPN/Health Educator. She moved into the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) in 1988 and was later appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in 2011. Serving on several local and state boards and committees, Dr. Dyse remained an active member of the Mississippi and American Nurses Associations. Her tenure as CEO led to the creation of a number of clinics, offices, and programs to aid in the accessibility of medical services in the areas SeMRHI serves.

Dr. Dyse touched many lives. Her vision and ability to mentor and help others made her an influential figure.

“Dr. Dyse was not only our CEO, but she was also our family and friend. To know her was to love her, and we will miss her more than words can express.” – Janice Robinson, Chief Operations Officer.

About SeMRHI
Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) is a network of 17 community health centers providing preventive and primary healthcare to patients for more than 40 years, regardless of their insurance status or their ability to pay. The success of SeMRHI is largely attributed to its dedication to the community and meeting the needs of its patients. For more information about SeMRHI, visit www.semrhi.com

December 1, 2021, SeMRHI will provide free rapid HIV testing, door prizes, and giveaways in honor of World AIDS Day!  The event will be held at Hattiesburg Family Health Center, 66 Old Airport Road, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.  For more information, call (601) 582-2619.

CQII congratulates Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) for their outstanding work around improving their viral suppression rates. CQII is honored to present them with the 2021 Award for Measurable Improvements in HIV Care to Mitigate HIV Disparities.

SeMRHI is a network of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), which provides integrated primary, HIV, and behavioral health care services for people with HIV in southern Mississippi. With 5 school-based health centers, they provide HIV education, prevention, and testing for youth. “What I’m most proud of are the patients,” said Tonya Green, the Director of Social Services and Ryan White Program Coordinator at SeMRHI’s Hattiesburg Family Health Center. “I’m really proud of their willingness to get into care and being proactive in their health care despite all of the stigma. We could not do what we do without these young patients being engaged, open-minded, and trustworthy of us in this journey they’re going through.”

SeMRHI participated in CQII’s past two collaboratives (end+disparities Collaborative and create+equity Collaborative) and used data-driven quality improvement techniques to identify youth who are not virally suppressed or have missed appointments. Medical case managers used a patient checklist to identify and address barriers to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and medical care adherence. ‘Health literacy illustration’ tools were used to visually help youth understand the effects of ART on viral suppression rates. SeMRHI’s goals of this intervention included to improve youth outreach, especially to those who were not virally suppressed; identify barriers to care and make appropriate referrals; increase health literacy; manage mental and substance use issues affecting youth; and ensure consistent follow-up on missed appointments.

This intervention was successful in improving viral suppression rates for youth, defined as ages 13 through 24. Over a 12-month period from July 2018 to June 2019, viral suppression rates for youth increased from 58% to 78%. The viral suppression rates for youth continue to be sustained at rates at or above 75%. As of April 2021, the current viral suppression rate for youth ages 13-24 was 77%. As a result of this intervention’s success, it has now been implemented for patients of all ages, not exclusively for youth patients.

This is not to say that SeMRHI did not face any challenges along the way. COVID-19 brought about unprecedented barriers to the work they do. “COVID-19 really mirrors HIV,” reflected Tonya. “The treatment and the guidelines were constantly changing, just like when HIV came out. The greatest challenge was having to wrap our head around what is COVID-19 and how we can educate our patients on ongoing safety measures.” Through the pandemic, SeMRHI succeeded in introducing a virtual consumer advisory board and through this, they were able to provide patients with peer support and education about COVID-19.

Some words of wisdom Tonya gives for other providers is to find your niche. “If you could do something for free for the rest of your life that makes you happy, that is your passion,” emphasized Tonya. “My passion is in HIV care, and I really love what I do.”

Contact
Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI)
Tonya Green, Director of Social Services
Email: tgreen@semrhi.com
Phone: 601-582-2619

Thought you couldn’t afford health insurance? Now you
can. Most people qualify for financial help. Discover the
different plans available and enroll by Jan. 15 for coverage
starting Jan. 1! Call us today at 601.450.1142!

Due to the American Rescue Plan (“the new law”), millions more people qualify for low-cost, quality plans.
With financial help, 4 out of 5 customers can get a plan for under $10 a month. With the Marketplace now
open we are encouraging consumers to enroll in 2022 coverage to see if they qualify for financial help and to sign up for coverage.

Are you having trouble choosing a Medicare plan? Call us today at 601-544-4163 ext. 4 for a FREE Medicare Plan Consultation. Medicare Open Enrollment ends December 7, 2021.

Did you know breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in the U.S.? Each year, about 245,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in U.S. women.

Ladies, get your free clinical breast exam, October 18 – October 22, at one of our clinics in Hattiesburg, Beaumont, Brooklyn, Lumberton, Picayune, Seminary, or Sumrall. Follow-up appointments and referrals will be available. No appointment is necessary! For more information, call (601) 658-0058.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. receives national recognition for efforts to improve care for patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) has received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ Participant Award for outpatient practices implementing quality improvement measures addressing the relationship between diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Every 80 seconds, an adult with diabetes in the U.S. is hospitalized for heart disease, which can lead to a heart attack. To earn the Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ award, organizations must commit to improving the quality of care for patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors by adopting clinical change and using evidence-based strategies and tools.

“Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) is dedicated to providing specialized care for patients with type 2 diabetes in managing their cardiovascular risk factors,” said Dr. Geroldean Dyse. “We are pleased to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our execution of quality care through Target: Type 2 Diabetes. The tools and resources provided help us track and measure our success in meeting evidenced-based clinical guidelines developed to improve patient outcomes.”

The Participant award recognizes practices that have completed data submission, including clinical measure entry, and committed to improving the quality of care for patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.

“More than 30 million Americans live with diabetes and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for people living with type 2 diabetes,” said Gregg C. Fonarow, MD, FAHA, volunteer expert from the American Heart Association and chief of the UCLA Division of Cardiology, director of the Ahmanson-UCLA Cardiomyopathy Center, and co-director of UCLA’s Preventive Cardiology Program.  “Organizations that participate in programs like this help raise awareness of the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and can improve the patient outcomes. We are pleased to recognize Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) for their commitment to quality care.”

Special thanks to BancorpSouth for your generous donation to Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI). We are truly appreciative. With your donation, we are able to expand our homeless voucher program by adding additional health services.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. earns national recognition for efforts to reduce the number of patients with uncontrolled blood pressure!

The American Heart Association and American Medical Association celebrate Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. for their commitment to prioritizing blood pressure control.

 Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. has been recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Medical Association (AMA) for their commitment to helping improve blood pressure (BP) control rates among the patient populations they serve, earning Silver Level Recognition as part of the 2021 Target: BP™ Recognition Program.

• The Silver Award recognizes practices that have demonstrated a commitment to improving blood pressure control through measurement accuracy.

Hypertension (high BP) is a leading risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and preventable death in the U.S. In addition, there are 121.5 million U.S. adults living with high BP and less than half of those people have their BP under control[1] – making both diagnosing and effectively managing hypertension critical. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that heart disease and stroke continue to kill more people in the U.S. than other causes.

“High blood pressure is a leading risk factor of heart disease and stroke that can often be prevented or managed if diagnosed and treated properly,” said Dr. Geroldean Dyse. “Addressing blood pressure management is key for better cardiovascular health – and critical today since heart disease and strokes continue to be a leading cause of death for Americans.”

Target: BP is a national collaboration between the AHA and the AMA aimed at reducing the number of Americans who suffer from heart attacks and strokes each year by urging physician practices, health systems, and patients to prioritize BP control. The initiative aims to help health care organizations improve blood pressure control rates through the use of AMA MAP BP™ evidence-based protocols and recognizes Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. as being committed to improving blood pressure control.

The Target: BP Recognition Program celebrates physician practices and health systems, who treat patients with hypertension, for achieving BP control rates at or above 70 percent within the populations they serve. These achievements will ultimately lead to a reduction in the number of Americans who suffer heart attacks and strokes.

Learn more at TargetBP.org.

This week at Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI), we are offering free health check-ups in observation of National Health Center Week at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall.  No appointment is necessary. Click on the link below to check out the news coverage about our National Health Center Week event with WDAM 7.

https://www.wdam.com/2021/08/11/semrhi-offering-free-health-screenings/

Monday, August 9 – Friday, August 13, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) is offering free health check-ups in observation of National Health Center Week at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall.  No appointment is necessary!  For more information, call (601) 658-0058.

SeMRHI in partnership with the Community Health Centers Association of Mississippi (CHCAMS) and Amerigroup will host a Drive-Thru Community Baby Shower on Friday, July 23, 2021.  Free diapers, baby wipes, children’s books, and cases of bottled water for all participants (while supplies last)!  This event will be held at our Women’s Health Center located at 62 Old Airport Road, Hattiesburg, MS 39401.  COVID vaccines will also be available for individuals ages 18 and up.  The first 50 participants to receive the vaccine will get a $25 DoorDash gift card.  For more information, call 601-658-0058.

Join us on Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 6 pm for a virtual presentation of our 41st Anniversary Gala. A celebration of Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative Inc. (SeMRHI), providing affordable, quality health care services each year to thousands of individuals for forty-one years!

The gala is an opportunity for you to help us continue our mission of ensuring that ALL people, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, have access to healthcare when they need it. Proceeds from the gala will be used to cover the cost of office visits, medications, lab work, and procedures at our facilities for our patients.

Special thanks to all our sponsors, donors, and contributors that made this event possible!

Donate today at https://www.semrhi.com/41st-anniversary-gala/or https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/semrhi

Visit our silent auction: https://www.32auctions.com/semrhi41years

Watch the Gala on Youtube or Facebook!

Join us as we celebrate National Men’s Health Week! Free health screenings, health information, and gift bags. While Supplies Last!  Free screenings will be provided at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall on Friday, June 18th.  For more information, please call 601-658-0058.

This week at Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI), we are offering free health check-ups in celebration of National Women’s Health Week at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary and Sumrall.  No appointment is necessary. Click on the link below to check out the news coverage.

https://www.wdam.com/2021/05/19/semrhi-womens-center-offers-free-health-screenings-national-womens-health-week/

Thank you, nurses, for providing quality healthcare to our patients!  You are dedicated.  You care.  You make a difference.  You matter.  You are at the HEART of SeMRHI healthcare!

Join us as we celebrate National Women’s Health Week! Free health screenings, health information, and gift bags. While Supplies Last!  Free screenings will be provided at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall  ALL WEEK, May 17 – May 21, 2021.  For more information, please call 601-658-0058.

Rural Mississippi hospitals face challenges with COVID-19 vaccinations

SeMRHI has been awarded recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance Patient-Centered Medical Home Program.  Locations include Beaumont Family Health Center, Brooklyn Family Health Center, Hattiesburg Family Health Center, Hattiesburg High School & Community Clinic, Hattiesburg Public School & Community Clinic, Lumberton Family Health Center, New Augusta Family Health Center, Picayune Family Health Center, Seminary Family Health Center, Sumrall Family Health Center, and Women’s Health Center.

Congratulations, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc., for sustaining your Patient-Centered Medical Home recognition!

March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a day to raise awareness about the impact of HIV on women and show support for women with HIV. #NWGHAAD #StopHIVTogether #HIV.  Join us at the Hattiesburg Family Health Center from 10 am to 2 pm to get tested.  Results in one (1) minute.  Free door prizes and PPE.  No appointment is necessary.  For more information, call (601) 582-2619.

March 7 -13, 2021 is nationally recognized as Dental Assistants Recognition Week, a week of recognition that gives people an opportunity to say “thank you” to those who work hard in providing dental healthcare.

Thank you, dental assistants, for providing quality healthcare to the patients we serve!

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and also a great time to get educated about colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon and rectum).

Did you know?

– Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death among men and women combined in the United States.

– 25-30% of CRC patients have a family history of the disease.

– One in 23 men and one in 25 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

– 60% of colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented with screening. (https://fightcolorectalcancer.org/about-colorectal-cancer/general-information/facts-stats/)

Screenings Save Lives!

Encourage your friends, family & co-workers to get screened TODAY!  For more information and to schedule an appointment at a SeMRHI clinic near you, call (601)658-0058.

“Social workers often are unsung heroes, but they play an essential role in helping people from all walks of life and backgrounds to live life to the fullest. During social work month, we hope you will learn more about this amazing profession, say a kind word to the social workers in your lives, and advocate for policies and legislation that benefit the profession and the populations they serve.” (socialworkers.org)

Thank you, social workers, for the quality service you provide to our patients!

The American Heart Association® and the American Medical Association recognizes practices across the country for their commitment to promoting and achieving better blood pressure control to reduce the number of Americans who have heart attacks and strokes.

As a Gold Level Award recipient, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) reached 70 percent of blood pressure control or higher within their patient population. Congratulations!

Did you know breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in the US outside of skin cancer? Each year in the US, about 245,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women.

Ladies, get your free clinical breast exam anytime during the month of October at one of our clinics in Hattiesburg, Beaumont, Brooklyn, Lumberton, Picayune, Seminary, or Sumrall. Follow up appointments and referrals will be available. No appointment is necessary! For more information, call (601) 658-0058.

Dr. James Griffin, MD, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc., was recently elected 2020-2021 president of the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians.  He plans to use his new position to educate the Mississippians about COVID-19.  Click here to check out the news interview with WDAM. 

This week at Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI), we are offering free health check-ups in observation of National Health Center Week at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary and Sumrall.  No appointment is necessary. Click on the link below to check out the news coverage about our National Health Center Week event with WHLT 22/WJTV 12 News.

Digital First: Southeast Mississippi Rural Healthcare Initiative honored by mayor

Each year the Community Health Center Association of Mississippi (CHCAMS) recognizes employees for their outstanding work as an ambassador of community health centers in Mississippi. Their dedication helps fulfill the mission and purpose of providing quality comprehensive healthcare.

This year, CHCAMS announced our CEO, Dr. Geroldean Dyse, as being the recipient of the Executive Director of the Year Award. Dr. Dyse, we applaud you, celebrate you, and thank you for a job well done!

Join us as we celebrate National Health Center Week! Free health check-ups and screenings will be provided at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary, and Sumrall  ALL WEEK, August 10- August 14, 2020.  For more information, please call 601-658-0058.

Stop by SeMRHI Support Services Center on Wednesdays, 9 am – 5 pm, for a walk-in visit with our Optometrist.  You may qualify for a voucher for a brand-new pair of eyeglasses.  For more information, please call (601) 909-9390!

Local Attorney, Richard Schwartz, donated 1000 N95 face masks to healthcare workers of Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. on Wednesday, May 6, 2020.  The masks will be distributed among the 17 clinics that make up Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative Incorporations network of community health centers throughout the Pine Belt.  The masks will also be used for their drive through testing centers over the coming weeks at Hattiesburg Family Health Center on May 13, at Beaumont Family Health Center on May 19, and at Seminary Family Health Center on May 21.  N95 masks, which protect wearers from airborne particles, are in short supply worldwide because of the coronavirus pandemic.  A shortage of equipment vital to protecting our healthcare professionals has become a huge concern for frontline workers treating COVID-19 patients. Schwartz says, “We recognize the need to support our most vulnerable essential workers during this crisis, which are our healthcare workers.  I wanted to do my part by donating these face masks to local hospitals.”  Schwartz will be donating face masks to other local hospitals in cities throughout the state.  Click here to view the news coverage from WDAM.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) is dedicated to keeping our patients and communities safe. As a network of seventeen community health centers, located in Hattiesburg, Seminary, Sumrall, Lumberton, Beaumont, New Augusta, Brooklyn, Picayune, and Petal, we are uniquely positioned to respond to health crises such as the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We are actively taking steps to protect our patients as we monitor the spread of the Coronavirus. For questions, please 601-658-0058 or email communityhealth@semrhi.com.

What is Coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a new respiratory virus that causes flu-like illness ranging from mild to severe, with symptoms of fever, coughing, fatigue and difficulty breathing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) are working to detect, contain, and limit the spread of cases in the U.S. and Mississippi. MSDH is actively preparing doctors and hospitals on how to respond safely and effectively to COVID-19 in Mississippi.

Like the flu, COVID-19 is thought to be spread person-to-person by close contact (within 6 feet) and by coughing or sneezing. Other possible routes of transmission, such as touching surfaces contaminated by the virus, are also being investigated.

Signs and Symptoms

Fever, Cough, Aches/Chills, and Shortness of Breath

What can I do to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus?

• Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with anyone who is ill.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes. When possible, cough, sneeze, or blow your nose into a tissue, and throw the tissue away.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially after coughing or sneezing, blowing your nose, and using the bathroom. Effective handwashing takes about 20 seconds, and includes cleaning under fingernails, between fingers, and washing the back of hands as well as the front.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are touched often.
• Stay in good overall health by eating right and staying active. If you are living with diabetes, heart disease, or other conditions, keep in touch with your doctor and stay current with your treatment.
• During or before flu season, get a flu shot. Flu vaccination can prevent the flu or make it less severe, and decrease your chance of hospitalization and death. It also keeps you healthier and better able to fight off infections.
• If you are sick, especially with shortness of breath, cough, fever or similar flu-like symptoms, call a doctor or healthcare provider.

Additional Recommendations from The Mississippi State Department of Health                           

• Avoid gatherings of 250 people or more, especially if there is evidence of transmission in your county or adjacent counties. If you do attend, remember to practice hand hygiene.
• To prevent illness in those most vulnerable, anyone 65 or older OR with a chronic medical condition should avoid any gathering of 250 people or more (corrected from 50 earlier).
• Avoid unnecessary (non-urgent) air, bus, or train travel.
• Limit visitation to older relatives or friends (especially in nursing or care homes).
• Prepare for the possibility that schools or daycare centers may temporarily close.

(The information on this page is provided by the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

SeMRHI is now offering telehealth visits for most of our primary care locations in Hattiesburg, Seminary, Sumrall, Beaumont, New Augusta, Petal, Brooklyn, Lumberton, and Picayune.  Speak to and see your provider from the comfort and safety of your home.  To book your appointment, call us at 601-658-0058.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. provides easy, convenient, online appointment scheduling for both new and established patients. Online appointment scheduling is available for most health center locations.

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI) Is Now Providing Coronavirus (COVID-19) Screenings at 8 Clinic Locations: Hattiesburg, New Augusta, Beaumont, Seminary, Sumrall, Lumberton, Brooklyn, and Picayune.

Forrest, Perry, Covington, Lamar, and Pearl River Counties, Miss. – (March 25, 2020) Effective immediately Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. has begun screening patients for COVID-19 at multiple clinic locations.

COVID-19 screenings are available in Hattiesburg at the Minor Care Clinic, every day of the week from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. to accommodate patients who may need to come in after-hours.

Minor Care Clinic is the only SeMRHI clinic providing COVID-19 screenings currently in Hattiesburg. There are several additional testing locations for patients who live in cities outside of Hattiesburg. Below is a comprehensive list of all SeMRHI testing locations with clinic names, hours of operation, phone numbers, and addresses.

Hattiesburg, MS
SeMRHI - Minor Care Clinic 
123 South 27th Avenue Hattiesburg, MS 39401 
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 
Phone Number: 601-450-3030

New Augusta, MS
SeMRHI - New Augusta Family Health Center
404 Main Street, MS 39462 New Augusta, MS 39462
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-964-8391

Beaumont, MS
SeMRHI - Beaumont Family Health Center
1411 Bradley Avenue Beaumont, MS 39423
Hours: Mon. – Wed. & Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Thur. 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-784-3922

Picayune, MS
SeMRHI - Picayune Family Health Center
1911 Read Road Picayune, MS 39466
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-251-3500

Seminary, MS
SeMRHI - Seminary Family Health Center
100 Hwy 535
Seminary, MS 39479
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-722-3208

Sumrall, MS
SeMRHI - Sumrall Family Health Center
1016 Hwy
Sumrall, MS 39482
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-758-4214

Lumberton, MS
SeMRHI - Lumberton Family Health
Center
598 West 11th Avenue
Lumberton, MS 39455
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-796-4215

Brooklyn, MS
SeMRHI - Brooklyn Family Health Center 
44 Brooklyn – Janice Road
Brooklyn, MS 39425
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. -5:30 p.m.
Phone Number: 601-582-1188


For questions regarding COVID-19 testing at any SeMRHI clinic, please call 601-658-0058.
Press Contact: Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. Marketing Dept, 601-450-4970.

Did you know breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in the US outside of skin cancer? Each year in the US, about 245,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women.

Get your free clinical breast exam anytime during the month of October at one of our clinics in Hattiesburg, Beaumont, Brooklyn, Lumberton, Picayune, Seminary, or Sumrall. Follow up appointments and referrals will be available. No appointment is necessary! For more information, call (601) 545-8700.

HATTIESBURG FAMILY HEALTH CENTER  WELCOMES DR. VERONICA TASSIN, DO!

At Hattiesburg Family Health Center, Dr. Tassin provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Hattiesburg Family Health Center include: Dr. Quenyatta Echols-Williams, MD, Dr. Catherine Thomas, MD, Dr. Richard Calderone, DO, and Mitchell Singley, FNP-BC

HATTIESBURG HIGH SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY CLINIC WELCOMES LISA MORGAN, FNP-BC!

At Hattiesburg High School and Community Clinic, Lisa provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Hattiesburg School and Community Clinic include: Bobby Nicole Riley, FNP-BC and Ruthie Zinn, LCSW.

SEMINARY FAMILY HEALTH CENTER WELCOMES DR. RASHEEDA HALL, MD!

At Seminary Family Health Center, Dr. Hall provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Seminary Family Health Center include: Robin Murphree, FNP-BC, Dr. Ginger Pace-Herndon, MD, and Amanda Landrum-McCallum, FNP-BC.

LUMBERTON FAMILY HEALTH CENTER  WELCOMES DR. MARK WOOD, MD!

At Lumberton Family Health Center, Dr. Wood provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Hattiesburg Family Health Center include: Patricia Thompson, FNP-BC and Kimberly Price, FNP-BC.

This week at Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SeMRHI), we are offering free health check-ups in observation of National Health Center Week at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary and Sumrall.  No appointment is necessary. Check out the news coverage about our National Health Center Week event on WHPM/FOX23 News. Click here to view the news coverage!

Join us as we celebrate National Health Center Week! Free health check-ups and screenings will be provided at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary and Sumrall  ALL WEEK, August 5- August 9, 2019.  For more information, please call 601-545-8700.

HATTIESBURG FAMILY HEALTH CENTER  WELCOMES MITCHELL SINGLEY, FNP-BC!

At Hattiesburg Family Health Center, Mitchell provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Hattiesburg Family Health Center include: Dr. Quenyatta Echols-Williams, MD, Dr. Catherine Thomas, MD, and Dr. Richard Calderone, DO.

SEMINARY FAMILY HEALTH CENTER  WELCOMES AMANDA LANDRUM-MCCALLUM, FNP-BC!

At Seminary Family Health Center, Amanda provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Seminary Family Health Center include: Robin Murphree, FNP-BC, Dr. Ginger Pace-Herndon, MD.

WDAM sat down with Dr. Cierra Green, MD, to talk about the importance of child wellness, immunizations and other vaccinations in preparation for children returning back to school. Children can receive an immunization, a well child check-up, or a dental screening and become eligible to receive FREE school supplies during our Back to School Immunization Fair. Click here to view the news coverage!

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. in partnership with the Covington County School District, Forrest County School District, Forrest County Agricultural High School, Hattiesburg Public School District, Perry County School District, and Petal School District provide a School Based Health Program to ensure all students have access to quality healthcare at no cost to parents. Click the image below to find out more information!

WDAM sat down with Dr. James Griffin, MD, to talk about free screenings during National Men’s Health Week.  Click here to view the news coverage!

Join us as we celebrate National Men’s Health Week! Free health screenings, men’s health information, and gift bags. While Supplies Last!  Free screenings will be provided at our clinic locations in Beaumont, Brooklyn, Hattiesburg, Lumberton, New Augusta, Picayune, Seminary and Sumrall  ALL WEEK, June 10 – June 14, 2019.  For more information, please call 601-544-4550.

HATTIESBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY CLINIC WELCOMES ANGELA JONES-STEWART, FNP-BC!

At Hattiesburg Pubilc School and Community, Angela provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Hattiesburg Pubilc School and Community Clinic include: Kisha Knight, FNP-BC

BROOKLYN FAMILY HEALTH CENTER WELCOMES CHARLES DIAMOND, FNP-BC

At Brooklyn Family Health Center, Charles provides affordable quality primary and preventive healthcare in a patient-centered, safe, compassionate environment.

Additional Providers at Brooklyn Family Health Center include: Susan Gentry, FNP-BC