Primary Care Health Services Inc.

02/06/2026

This Black History Month, we honor the generations of Black healers, caregivers, and advocates who have cared for our communities, often in the face of injustice and inequity. From midwives and nurses to physicians and public health leaders, Black contributions to medicine and caregiving have shaped the care we know today. As we reflect on the past, we recommit to building healthier, more equitable futures for all.

02/02/2026

From its roots in the Civil Rights era, Primary Care Health Services, Inc. (PCHS) has championed access to quality healthcare for all. In 1968, the Homewood-Bruston Neighborhood Health Center opened as one of the nation’s first federally funded health centers, later renamed the Alma Illery Medical Center in honor of a fearless community leader who fought to eliminate prejudice in healthcare.

Thanks to pioneers like Alma Illery and Wilford A. Payne, PCHS has grown into the largest network of private clinics in Allegheny County, bringing care, equity, and hope to thousands. This Black History Month, we celebrate their legacy and continue their mission of accessible, compassionate care for every community.

01/16/2026

12/29/2025

As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to focus on your health. Annual check-ups are an essential part of preventive care, helping you stay on top of your wellness, catch potential issues early, and start the new year with peace of mind.

If you haven’t scheduled your yearly visit yet, now is the perfect moment. Our team is ready to help you prioritize your health before the year ends. Call 412-244-4700 or visit pchspitt.org to schedule an appointment today!

12/25/2025

Happy Holidays from all of us at PCHS! As the year comes to a close, we wish you warmth, health, and wellness. The holiday season is a wonderful time to care for yourself and your loved ones. Remember, small, consistent steps like staying active, eating well, and prioritizing your mental health can make a big difference in your overall wellbeing.

Thank you for trusting us with your care. Wishing you a joyful, healthy, and peaceful holiday season!

12/18/2025

The holiday season can be joyful, but it can also bring stress, fatigue, and overwhelm. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Take a few moments to check in with yourself: Are you getting enough rest? Staying hydrated? Connecting with loved ones? Reaching out for support when you need it?

If you feel you could use additional guidance or support, our office is here to help. Schedule an appointment to talk with our team and prioritize your wellbeing this season. Small steps can make a big difference in maintaining balance and mental wellness. Visit pchspitt.org or call 412-244-4700 today.

12/16/2025

🎥 We’re Proud to Share Our Story! 🎥

We are honored to announce that WQED recently featured Primary Care Health Services (PCHS) in a special story now available on YouTube.

The feature highlights the compassionate, high-quality care provided by PCHS, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) proudly headquartered in Homewood, serving our community through 11 sites across Allegheny County.

This story reflects our deep commitment to accessible, patient-centered care and the dedicated team who show up every day to support the health and well-being of our neighbors.

📺 Watch the story on YouTube and learn more about how PCHS continues to serve, uplift, and care for our community.

Thank you to WQED for helping us share the PCHS story—and thank you to our patients, staff, and partners who make this work possible every day.

In this video, we visit with the caring people behind the Alma Illery Medical Center, the flagship facility of Primary Health Care Services, Inc. Since 1968...

12/15/2025

Flu season is in full swing, but it’s not too late to protect yourself. A flu shot is quick, safe, and effective at reducing your risk, both for you and those around you. If you haven’t had yours yet, now is a great time to schedule an appointment.

Schedule your vaccination appointment at pchspitt.org or call 412-244-4700

12/12/2025

Holiday meals don’t have to derail your commitment to healthy living. With a few simple shifts, you can enjoy all the warmth and flavor of the season while still nourishing your body. Try incorporating more whole foods, opting for lighter cooking methods, and balancing indulgent dishes with nutrient-dense choices. Small adjustments can make a big difference in how you feel—energized, satisfied, and fully present for the celebrations.

12/09/2025

As temperatures drop, our bodies work a little harder to stay warm and healthy. Here are a few simple ways to support your well-being during the colder months:

• Layer up wisely – Dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable, especially when going in and out of heated spaces. Hats, gloves, and warm socks make a big difference.
• Stay hydrated – It’s easy to forget water when it’s cold, but staying hydrated supports your immune system, skin, and energy levels.
• Choose warm, nourishing foods – Seasonal vegetables, hearty soups, stews, and herbal teas can help keep you fueled and warm.
• Keep moving – Short walks, light stretching, or at-home workouts can boost circulation and improve your mood.
• Prioritize sleep – Longer nights offer a great opportunity to get more restorative rest. Try creating a relaxing evening routine.
• Protect your skin – Cold air and indoor heat can dry out skin, so moisturizing regularly and using a humidifier can help.

What is your go-to wellness habit when the weather gets cold? Share your tips in the comments.

12/05/2025

The holiday season can be joyful and overwhelming. If stress starts to take over, try this simple 2-minute grounding exercise you can do anywhere:

- 5 things you can see
- 4 things you can touch
- 3 things you can hear
- 2 things you can smell
- 1 thing you can taste

This sensory “5-4-3-2-1” technique helps calm your mind, slow your breathing, and bring you fully into the present moment. Take a brief pause today to reset and breathe. Your mind and body will thank you.

What strategies help you stay grounded during the holidays? Share your tips in the comments!

12/04/2025

Winter may feel cooler, but your body still loses moisture every day. Because we don’t feel as thirsty in cold weather, dehydration can sneak up on you faster than you realize.

Here are three signs you might be dehydrated:
• Dry skin or chapped lips
• Fatigue or low energy
• Headaches or light dizziness

Staying hydrated supports your immune system, your energy, and your overall well-being, especially during the busy holiday season.

Tips to stay hydrated in winter:
• Keep a reusable water bottle within reach
• Drink a glass of water with each meal
• Enjoy herbal tea or warm lemon water if cold drinks aren’t appealing

How do you stay hydrated during the colder months? Share your tips in the comments