MONROE, N.C. — The end of February is fast approaching, meaning Black History Month is coming to a close. WCNC Charlotte is highlighting heroes within the community. Dr. Gwendolyn Perkins is one standout doctor who’s making her presence felt throughout Union County.
Perkins is the Medical Director at Community Health Services of Union County. “I've always enjoyed medicine," she told WCNC Charlotte.
For years, Perkins has made it her mission to help others. The clinic accepts uninsured patients and low-income patients who live in or around Union County.
Her passion remains to build strong relationships with all her patients.
“I don't feel that I'm looked at differently," Perkins said. "I'm coming in to help to do my job, and hopefully to give you the information you need for your health and to make you better."
There’s a big need in the medical field for more diversity. Data from the Association of American Medical Colleges show that only 5.7% of U.S. doctors are Black, while the overall Black population is nearly 14% of the total population in the United States.
Perkins’ success and leadership also have an impact on her staff.
Alex Hurst is a nurse practitioner at the clinic.
“She's a role model as a female physician, a leader in medicine, just a wealth of knowledge, but a giver because she gives everything that she has all the time," Hurst said when asked about Perkins.
Perkins stresses nothing stopped her from chasing her passion. She hopes that her drive inspires the next generation.
“Don't let anybody tell you 'You can't.' I mean, there's always a way to get through any obstacle that's there. You'll find a way to make the money, you'll find a way to make the time.”
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.