Our Story


Male nurse is standing in hospital wing and using a mobile device for secure clinical messaging

The Primary Health Network (PHN) began with one small community health center site in the Shenango Valley, in 1984, with a central focus on providing the highest quality of care to the people we serve.

Since our inception in 1984, The Primary Health Network, a private, non-profit organization, has worked with local communities to develop and implement a new model of health care: the Community Health Center.

After over 40 years of service, PHN has grown to become the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Pennsylvania and one of the largest in the nation. Currently, we staff over 150 physicians, dentists, physician assistants, certified nurse practitioners, and other health professionals. Our support staff includes over 450 employees, as well. Last year, we reached over 75,000 patients through health, educational, and enabling services.

At PHN, our patients are the center of our focus. We take various measures to ensure that our patients receive the highest quality of care. Some initiatives include our Primary Care Medical Home, free patient transportation in select counties (Beaver, Blair, Butler, Clarion, Erie, Jefferson, Lawrence, Mercer, Mifflin counties) to medical appointments, and our continuing accreditation by the Joint Commission. Adapting to the changing healthcare market, PHN participates in most managed care plans, processes most insurances, and offers a Sliding Fee Discount to eligible patients.

Our Mission

Primary Health Network, a Federally Qualified Health Center, provides quality primary care services and access to the specialty care commensurate with the needs of the people in the communities we serve. Services are offered regardless of age, race, creed, sex, national origin or ability to pay.

Our Vision

Primary Health Network is first in offering quality care and caring to patients in communities. Primary Health Network is a leader among health centers through its commitment to developing innovative programs, new technologies and excellent facilities.

Our Core Values

  • Integrity:
    • We adhere to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and accountability, safeguarding patient trust, and fostering a culture of honesty.
  • Respect:
    • We value diversity and inclusivity, treating all individuals with dignity and respect, and honoring their unique perspectives in a workplace that encourages open voices and autonomy in healthcare decisions.
  • Innovation:
    • We embrace a culture of continuous improvement, actively seeking creative solutions through cutting-edge technologies and research to adapt to evolving healthcare needs and provide high-quality services.
  • Service:
    • Service excellence is our priority. We go the extra mile, offering compassionate, personalized care to meet patients’ healthcare needs to exceed their expectations and enhance community well-being.

Our country’s future healthcare system will present new challenges and opportunities for growth.

The Primary Health Network stands ready to meet the healthcare needs of all residents in the communities we serve, and we will continue to look to the future, as we continue to provide quality healthcare.

Little girl at local event hugs PHN practitioner