Prism Health North Texas recently announced that Larry Martin, MS, has joined the organization as its new chief operating officer, while William Anthony Hays, MD, LAT, PES, has been appointed as chief medical officer.
Dr. John Carlo, CEO of PHNTX, said, "We are excited to welcome Larry Martin as our chief operating officer, bringing valuable experience in leading operations of large community health centers, and to see Dr. Hays rise to chief medical officer, recognizing his years of service and commitment to our patients. Together, they will play a key role in driving our continued growth and improving care for our community."
As COO, Martin is responsible for moving Prism Health's vision and strategic plan forward and integrating all essential business functions, according to a press release announcing his appointment. He brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, specializing in organizations committed to expanding healthcare access for vulnerable populations.
In previous roles, Martin has served in senior leadership roles in large academic medical centers as well as community-based federally qualified health centers in New York City. He holds a master of science degree in healthcare management from Saint Elizabeth University and a bachelor of science degree in business management from Kean University, and he brings "both strategic insight and operational expertise to this role," the press release notes.
Martin said, "I am honored and excited to join an organization with a strong history and commitment to community health, and I look forward to working with our seasoned senior leadership team to establish new services that meet healthcare needs."
Hays has been with PHNTX since 2017, previously serving as a provider specializing in HIV care and primary care at PHNTX's Uptown Physicians Group. He was named interim chief medical officer in November 2023 and was officially appointed to the position of CMO in March of 2024.
As chief medical officer, Hays leads the organization's clinical strategy, ensuring high quality, patient-centered care while expanding access to essential health services. He works closely with providers and staff to enhance medical outcomes, integrate innovative care models, and uphold PHNTX's commitment to community health.
Hays attended Ross University School of Medicine, completed his residency training in family medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Regional Programs, and holds a bachelor of science degree in education and a masters of science degree in exercise science with an emphasis on performance enhancement.
With more than 12 years of HIV care and family medicine experience, Hays is passionate about delivering comprehensive, affirming healthcare, and ensuring that every patient receives the support they need to thrive. He said, "I'm honored to serve as CMO and continue PHNTX's legacy of compassionate, high-quality care.
"Having been part of this team for years, I've seen our organization grow to meet the evolving needs of our patients," he continued. "My focus is on expanding access, improving health outcomes, and ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care."
In August of 2024, PHNTX was named a federally qualified health center look-alike, granting its 11 locations designation as FQHC sites serving Dallas County. FQHCs are critical in addressing health inequities across the country, providing care regardless of a patient's ability to pay, offering a sliding fee scale based on household income.
A lack of primary care services for the general public has been a persistent issue in many parts of Dallas, leading to increased hospitalizations, higher rates of chronic diseases, and poorer health outcomes among all ages. By becoming an FQHC-LA, PHNTX has expanded its capacity to address disparities and ensure that more individuals receive the preventive and ongoing care they need, Carlo said, adding that Martin and Hays "will be essential in supporting PHNTX's pursuit of these goals."
PHNTX operates 11 locations throughout North Texas that provide primary care for pediatric and adult patients, women's health, behavioral health, dental care and pharmacy services.