School-based health centers make seeking medical and dental care as simple as walking down the hall in most cases. The Hilsman Health Center, the first school-based health clinic to open in northeast Georgia, is a partnership between the Clarke County School District and the Athens Neighborhood Health Center and is a comprehensive medical office. It is staffed by a nurse practitioner, dentist, and support staff.

Located behind the Hilsman Middle School gymnasium, between Hilsman Middle and Gaines Elementary schools, the center provides a range of services to meet the needs of CCSD faculty, staff, and students:

• check-ups and wellness checks
• dental care
• asthma care
• diabetes care
• high blood pressure management
• immunizations
• lab tests
• prescriptions
• COVID-19 testing and vaccinations
• sports physicals
• and more

Address and Contact Information

870 Gaines School Rd. (between Hilsman Middle and Gaines elementary schools) Athens, GA 30605
Phone: 706-546-7463
Fax: 706-613-4404

Hours of Operation and How to Make an Appointment

• Monday through Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 
• Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 
• Closed for staff lunch break (Monday through Thursday): 12-1 p.m.
• Closed on most major holidays. Call the office at 706-546-7463 for more information.

Advance appointments are preferred and greatly appreciated, but we do try to maintain space and accommodation for same-day appointments. Please call 706-546-7463 to schedule an appointment. The office is CLOSED Monday through Thursday from 12-1 p.m. for staff lunch.

Tionya Lawrence, FNP-C
Family Nurse Practitioner

Vianey Romero
Medical Assistant

Dr. Merissa Nelms, DDS, CCA
General Dentist

Kathy Bray
Dental Assistant

LaToya Hopkins
Office Specialist/Referral Coordinator

Natasha Hall
Hilsman Health Center Liaison