Rural Health Medical Program opens new Podiatry Health Center

Rural Health Medical Program celebrated a major milestone this week with the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its expanded Selma Podiatry Health Center in a new office space off Dallas Avenue in Selma. 

CEO Keshee Smith said expanding with the podiatry center marks an important growth for the organization despite statewide uncertainty in the healthcare landscape. 

“Expansion is growth,” Smith said. “We wanted to create an intimate space for patients and show that growth is possible, especially during times of uncertainty.” 

The new facility is housed in the former Family Foot Care building and allows Rural Health to relocate part of its growing administrative team, including billing specialists and care coordinators, giving patients the ability to receive both clinical and administrative support in one location, Smith said. 

The Selma Podiatry Health Center will be led by longtime local podiatrist Dr. Tomeko McPhillips. 

Selma Mayor Johnny Moss praised the expansion as a sign of progress. 

“As Keshee talked about growth, that’s what we’re about in this community,” Moss said. “We’re excited for this opportunity and for all the work Rural Health does for Selma.” 

Sheryl Smedley, director of the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare in rural Alabama. “It’s a great day in Selma as we continue to strive to provide quality of life,” she said. 

Dallas County Commission Chairman and Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn highlighted the significance of opening a new health center at a time when many communities are facing hospital closures. 

“In light of what’s going on around this world dealing with healthcare, it’s challenging to have opportunities like this,” Nunn said. “But in Selma, Alabama, we’re here opening up. We thank you for looking out for us and partnering with Selma and Dallas County.” 

Dr. McPhillips, who previously operated in a smaller space at Rural Health’s main Selma campus, said she was grateful to return to a setting that allows her to better serve patients. “I’m so happy to have this collaboration and to be back home,” she said. 

Smith closed the ceremony by recognizing Dr. McPhillips and her husband for more than a decade of partnership with Rural Health across multiple counties, including Perry, Marengo, Clarke, Wilcox and Monroe. 

“It took seeing the need and understanding that managing in two different areas while providing exceptional service is sometimes too much to carry,” Smith said. “Through partnerships, you can provide those services and not miss a beat.”