Southern Albemarle Family Practice (SAFP) has welcomed Dr. Katherine Hedian to its practice.

According to a press release, Hedian joins the existing health care team to provide high-quality medical care to new and existing patients.

“Hedian received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Maryland School of Nursing in Baltimore, Maryland,” officials said in the release. “She received a Master of Science in nursing from Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolt School of Nursing in Cleveland, Ohio.”

The release cited Hedian then went on to receive her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia.

“Hedian will offer a full range of primary medical services, including sick visits, chronic disease management, physicals and more,” officials said in the release.

“I am excited to join the staff at SAFP and to serve this wonderful community,” Hedian said in the release.

SAFP is part of Central Virginia Health Services (CVHS), a non-profit community health center — Virginia’s first community health center.

“SAFP currently offers family medical care to anyone in the community who needs it,” officials said in the release. “Community health centers like SAFP are community-based and patient-directed organizations that serve populations with limited access to health care because of geography, lack of insurance, poverty or other factors.”

The release cited along with other health care safety net providers, the health center plays a key role in the community’s health.

“SAFP takes most insurance plans and offers an income-based discount for services for low-income families,” officials said in the release.

Those interested in making an appointment to see Hedian should call the office at (434) 286-3602. Those seeking additional information are directed to contact Sheena Mackenzie, development director, at (434) 581-4073 ext. 10733.