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Marian County coalition aims to bring coordinated primary care, screenings and transportation to Jefferson
Summary
The Marian County Health and Resource Coalition presented a plan to coordinate existing providers, use county health facilities and a school annex for weekly clinics, and partner with UT Tyler and Community Healthcore to provide screenings, vaccinations and transportation services locally.
Will Thomas, director of the Marian County Health and Resource Coalition, briefed the council on a coalition of local organizations assembled to reduce gaps in health and transportation services in Marian County. Thomas said the group will leverage existing facilities — beginning with Marian County Hospital District offices and a Jefferson ISD annex — to deliver weekly clinics, vaccinations and youth wellness programs.
"When someone in Marian County simply can't find the help they need, the problem usually isn't the resources don't exist. The problem is that the resources are not always connected," Thomas said, and outlined partners including Community Healthcore (the regional mental-health authority), University of Texas at Tyler faculty and local hospital and school officials.
The coalition plans a phased rollout: one-day-per-week clinic sessions initially, use of the Marian County Hospital District until a clinic annex is ready, and transportation coordination through East Texas Council of Governments for longer trips. Thomas also announced a June 20 health fair and "freedom walk" to connect residents with services.
Why it matters: The plan aims to reduce travel burdens for vulnerable populations, expand vaccination and screening access and integrate community partners to increase service uptake. Councilmembers expressed support and encouraged outreach to ensure residents use the services.
