HealthWorks for Northern Virginia

Christine
on

I serve on the HealthWorks for Northern Virginia Board of Directors.

HealthWorks is a 501(c(3) nonprofit community-based Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). As such, they take all insurance and serve patients regardless of ability to pay. I was initially drawn to this practice because of their Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) philosophy — it’s something I value but didn’t realize I was missing out on that until I showed up for my first appointment and was pleasantly surprised by the difference that having a PCMH can make for a patient.

If you haven’t heard of HealthWorks, follow them on social and continue supporting them and the good work they’ve been quietly doing behind the scenes for 15 years at now five locations in Northern Virginia.

When I’m at HealthWorks, whether as a patient or to volunteer my time and talents as a Board member or as a Certified Professional Photographer, I’m blown away by the education and expertise surrounding me, whether it be with leadership, staff, or fellow board members. These professionals are truly inspiring as they dedicate themselves and their work to providing affordable, quality, family-centered, and culturally sensitive healthcare. They strive to meet the medical and non-medical needs of all patients regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, residency status, insurance status, or ability to pay.

They say every portrait is a self-portrait of the photographer. Some of these professionals were underwhelmed to sit for me in front of my studio lights. I worked hard to help them see what I see: the overwhelming goodness they provide in their service to others.

Many, many thanks to Carlos Harrison-Lee, who graciously helped schlep my gear to and from the shooting location and my car on multiple days. You’ll notice he appears numerous times in the video — that’s because he’s got something he’s working on, and I made it my goal to share in that dream by getting him the images he needs to pursue it.