Sierra Winter Smith

Sunshine Community Health Center (SCHC) was originally founded in 1986 by a grassroots effort to bring the first basic health care option to the Upper Susitna Valley. Today SCHC is open 6 days per week in two locations, Talkeetna and Willow, employs over 60 people and provides medical, dental and behavioral health services to over 5000 residents. SCHC is a recognized Patient Centered Medical Home (PCMH). We coordinate your overall care, rather than just treating symptoms that brought you into the office. You, our patient, are the most important part of the medical home. We encourage you to take an active role in your own health and to work closely with the team involved in your care. We're transforming how primary care is delivered through the following 5 principals: Comprehensive Care: Your primary care provider heads a team of medical professionals, including specialists, nurses, pharmacists, behavioral health professionals, nutritionists, medical assistants and other healthcare professionals all focused on improving your overall health. Patient Centered: Our focus is on you, a whole person with unique needs, culture, values, and preferences. Coordinated: We help you stay organized across all elements of the healthcare system making sure no details are lost, even when we aren't the ones giving you that care. This includes referrals for specialty care, hospitals, home healthcare, and community services and supports and after care follow-up. Accessible: You'll experience shorter waiting times for urgent needs, extended hours, electronic access to records through our patient portal, and alternative methods of communication such as email. Quality & Safety: We help you understand your condition(s), explain your options regarding your care and guide shared decision-making with patients and families. We constantly look for ways to improve by measuring and responding to patient experiences and satisfaction.