Hudson Headwaters Launches Plans for Salem Family Health
During a November Salem planning board meeting, Hudson Headwaters Health Network announced its plans to construct a new primary care center. Salem Family Health, located at 1830 County Route 64 in Salem, will begin construction in 2024.
“Our proposed project in Salem will help expand access to primary care for families living in rural areas,” said Hudson Headwaters CEO Tucker Slingerland, M.D. “Salem was our first community to experience mobile health in 2021, resulting in numerous patients establishing primary care for themselves and their families, some for the very first time. This demand encouraged further access in Salem, hence the development of this health center. As we finalize plans, we thank Salem town officials and community members for their ongoing engagement and partnership.”
Initial plans for Salem Family Health include advanced primary care services such as family medicine, integrated behavioral health and care management. The center is expected to be a 14,300-square-foot facility equipped with nine primary care exam rooms and three designated for pediatrics. In an effort to bring greater access to the community, Hudson Headwaters is partnering with Glens Falls Hospital to operate on-site lab services at Salem Family Health. An on-site pharmacy is also proposed, as well as opportunities to grow the Food as Medicine program for patients and community members. Initial plans include employing fifteen full-time staff in the first year, with plans for additional growth over time.
“I am proud to serve on Hudson Headwaters’ board of directors and to be engaged with this project in Salem,” shared Deana Ketchum, Salem resident, co-owner of New Collar Goods and Hudson Headwaters board member. “After several years out west, my husband and I returned to our native Washington County to grow our business and enjoy the beauty and great quality of life our region offers. The new health center will enhance that quality of life for many residents now and well into the future.”
Plans are currently underway, including important state and federal approvals. The Network looks forward to updating the community as plans progress, including an anticipated opening date.