HSNT is Increasing Access to Essential Healthcare for Children in Denton County
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Approximately 4,000 Additional Pediatric Patients Projected to be Served,Regardless of Ability to Pay In response to the growing community need for affordable pediatric care, Health Services of North Texas has hired two new pediatricians and renovated a health center facility in the City of Denton to better serve local families. With nearly 60 years of combined experience, Dr. Stephen Schulman and Dr. Parmbir Bhangoo joined the Health Services of North Texas team in early October; renovations to the health center at 4308 Mesa Drive were completed at the end of the same month. This pediatric expansion will make significant strides in addressing the growing need for quality, accessible healthcare.
Denton County is federally recognized as a Medically Underserved Area, meaning there are not enough medical providers for the size of the population. According to census estimates, over 12,500 children in the county have no health insurance and more than 17,200 live in poverty. In 2023, the population of Denton County surpassed 1 million residents, and the county’s rapid growth further increases the need for additional healthcare resources – especially for low-income and uninsured populations. Serving over 18,000 patients, Health Services of North Texas is dedicated to removing barriers to accessible care as the population of Denton County continues to grow.
Reflecting on the long-term impact of the expansion, Doreen Rue, Chief Executive Officer of Health Services of North Texas, said, “This expansion of pediatric care is a direct intersection of Health Services of North Texas’ mission and community need. Investing in the health and wellbeing of kids and families strengthens the foundation of our community – now and for the future.”
Health Services of North Texas practices a comprehensive, patient-centered model of care, which includes well visits, sick visits, immunizations, behavioral health services for patients age 12 and over, and prescription assistance. In 2023, Health Services of North Texas served over 3,800 children through 4 health centers located in the City of Denton. Approximately 7,500 pediatric patients are projected to be served through these locations in 2024. Health Services of North Texas serves children and families on an affordable, sliding-fee scale, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.
Dr. Bhangoo expressed her dedication to providing children with quality healthcare as she joins the Health Services of North Texas team, commenting, “As a pediatrician, I get to be a part of the most important journey in a child’s life. I believe that every child deserves the best care possible, regardless of their background.”
Eager to begin this new chapter, Dr. Schulman said, “We are excited about the expansion of pediatric services at Health Services of North Texas to provide excellent, patient centered, cost-effective, and compassionate care to kids in the Denton County community. We are passionate about caring for kids and welcome all new patients regardless of income or insurance.”
Funded by a grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, Health Services of North Texas’ newly renovated pediatric health center boasts a more efficient layout and 3 new exam rooms. The updated, child-friendly space was designed with input from the medical team to support comfortable, quality care for additional families. Immediately next door, at 4304 Mesa Drive, Health Services of North Texas provides primary healthcare and support services for adults, allowing for convenient access to care for the whole family.
Ribbon Cutting Scheduled for Wednesday, April 17th at 4:00 PM
The community is invited to join us as we reveal our newly renovated pediatric health center on Wednesday April 17th from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM with a Denton Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting. Children are welcome to come and enjoy a photo opportunity with their favorite pediatric provider. Light bites and beverages will be available.
Please visit www.healthservicesntx.org to schedule an appointment, make a donation supporting patient care for Denton County residents in need, or learn more about Health Services of North Texas. Contact Teri Johnson to schedule a tour of the updated health center and see the impact of this expansion firsthand.
Health Services of North Texas
Serving the Denton County community since 1988, Health Services of North Texas is a nonprofit healthcare center providing accessible primary healthcare through 6 locations in Denton and Collin Counties. With the mission of improving the quality of life for all North Texans through medical care, support services, and advocacy, Health Services of North Texas serves over 18,000 total patients per year, including more than 8,000 children. Health Services of North Texas is recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home, with a distinction in Integrated Behavioral Healthcare, and is looking forward to establishing a presence in the Serve Lewisville Center in the near future.
Contact: Teri Johnson, Director of Marketing and Communications
940-293-6009