By Teresa Hicks

The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing’s PATH (Providing Access to Healthcare) Clinic has been named the Alabama State Nurses Association’s 2025 Outstanding Healthcare Organization for its ongoing commitment to improving access, outcomes and equity in patient care. The awards were presented in October during the ASNA Annual Convention and Leadership Summit.

Since 2012, the PATH Clinic has provided high-quality, comprehensive care to individuals managing diabetes and to patients recently discharged from UAB Hospital. Operated in partnership with UAB Medicine, the clinic has become a vital resource for uninsured and underinsured patients, offering support that addresses immediate needs and long-term health.

Its interprofessional team, including nurse practitioners, physicians, dieticians, optometrists and social workers, delivers the full spectrum of diabetes care, while students from each discipline gain hands-on experience through coursework and clinical rotations.

To date, the PATH Clinic has served 1,183 patients and facilitated more than 15,268 patient visits, reflecting the clinic’s steady growth and the trust it has built within the community.

PATH Clinic Director Michele Talley, PhD, ACNP-BC, FAANP, FNAP, FAAN (MSN 2005, PhD 2015), says the award reflects the dedication of the team and the strength of its collaboration with UAB Medicine.

“This honor speaks to our team’s commitment and our partnership with UAB Medicine to improve care for uninsured patients living with diabetes,” Talley said. “By providing comprehensive, coordinated care, we strive to bridge gaps in care and empower patients to achieve better health."

This accomplishment reflects the School’s ongoing commitment to elevating care and expanding access for the patients who need it most.