“UCHC: Expanding Access to Care in Southern Arizona” Kim McNew talks with Andy Taylor (Aired 08/20/2025)

On this episode of Staying Healthy, Andy Taylor welcomes Kim McNew, Chief Operating Officer of United Community Health Center, to discuss her return to Arizona and her role in leading one of Southern Arizona’s most vital healthcare organizations. After years in Michigan and Alaska, Kim shares her excitement about being back in Tucson—reconnecting with family, rediscovering local favorites like Mount Lemmon and Mamma Louise’s, and enjoying the culture, food, and community she calls home.

Kim highlights UCHC’s mission as a federally qualified health center dedicated to providing primary care, dental, pediatric, and behavioral health services to all, regardless of financial status. With locations serving communities from Three Points to Arivaca, Green Valley, Sahuarita Heights, Amado, and Vail, she emphasizes the center’s commitment to accessibility and compassionate care. Services extend beyond medical needs, including patient transportation, diabetic education, insurance outreach, and pharmacy discount programs to remove barriers for patients.

She also details exciting recent initiatives, including the grand reopening of the Continental Family Medical Center and new dental facilities, UCHC’s partnership with Pima County to install Narcan kits in clinic waiting rooms, and the celebration of National Health Center Week 2025, recognizing the impact community health centers have nationwide. Looking ahead, Kim shares her priorities of strengthening infrastructure, supporting staff, expanding rural healthcare access, and investing in technology and outreach.

Listeners can learn more at www.uchcaz.org or by connecting with UCHC on social media.