Appalachian Mountain Health Expands Care Under Dr. Shantelle Simpson's Leadership

The Federally Qualified Health Center has grown its services and reach across Western North Carolina.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 4:39pm

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Appalachian Mountain Health (AMH), a Federally Qualified Health Center serving Western North Carolina, has experienced significant growth and expanded its care delivery under the leadership of President and CEO, Dr. Shantelle Simpson. Since 2021, AMH has strengthened medical operations that bring essential services directly to underserved communities, broadening services across primary care, women's health, pediatrics, mobile medicine, dental care, school-based care, and pharmacy services.

Why it matters

AMH's expansion responds to local needs in underserved communities facing barriers like transportation, housing instability, and cost. By integrating evidence-based practices that address the full scope of health, AMH aims to improve outcomes for patients while helping reduce healthcare costs for the region.

The details

In 2025 alone, AMH's pharmacy services supported over 1,030 patients through 2,659 visits, boosting revenue by 34%. Women's Health expanded access to obstetric and gynecologic services, achieving a 62.9% cervical cancer screening rate. Pediatrics added 839 new patients and delivered 3,592 visits. AMH dental expanded clinics and launched a school-based mobile program that nearly doubled new patients. Community medicine saw 2,431 mobile visits, an 87% increase.

  • Dr. Shantelle Simpson joined AMH as President and CEO in 2021.
  • In 2025, AMH's pharmacy services, women's health, pediatrics, dental, and community medicine all saw significant growth.

The players

Dr. Shantelle Simpson

The President and CEO of Appalachian Mountain Health, who has led the organization's expansion and growth since joining in 2021.

Appalachian Mountain Health (AMH)

A Federally Qualified Health Center serving Western North Carolina, providing primary care, behavioral health, women's health, pediatrics, mobile medical services, and on-site pharmacy support.

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What they’re saying

“The time has come for health centers like Appalachian Mountain Health to stand boldly as true medical homes delivering high-quality, compassionate care.”

— Dr. Shantelle Simpson, President and CEO, Appalachian Mountain Health

The takeaway

AMH's growth under Dr. Simpson's leadership demonstrates the impact a Federally Qualified Health Center can have in expanding access to comprehensive, integrated healthcare services for underserved communities.