Phenix City Children’s began its journey in October 2007 as a dedicated pediatric practice. Founded by Dr. Chandra during the launch of the new Summit Hospital’s Labor and Delivery program, the practice quickly outlasted that initiative. Starting with one doctor, two employees, and no patients in a rented suite on Stadium Drive, we rapidly grew to serve 1,000 patients within just six months, expanding our team to four employees. By 2009, we welcomed another pediatrician and remodeled our suite to accommodate our increasing patient base.
Driven by a vision to create a larger, more accessible space, Dr. Chandra embarked on a project for what she called her “dream office.” In 2009, we purchased land on South Railroad Street and began planning a new facility that would better serve families in Russell and Lee County. We officially moved into our state-of-the-art office in October 2010, and by 2012, we expanded our team further by adding a third pediatrician and launching a Behavioral Health program in response to community needs.
As the Fort Mitchell, Alabama community experienced significant population growth, Dr. Chandra recognized the necessity for a medical office in that area. In 2011, we quickly acquired land and built a clinic within three months, opening the Fort Mitchell Clinic with the support of a Physician’s Assistant. In the fall of 2013, we rebranded as Preferred Medical Group to encompass both Phenix City Children’s and Fort Mitchell Clinic. To further address community demands, we introduced a primary care program at Fort Mitchell Clinic in the fall of 2014, allowing parents and grandparents of our pediatric patients to receive care from us as well.
In the fall of 2015, we expanded our reach with the opening of Opelika Pediatrics & Family Clinic along US Hwy 280. Dr. Chandra recognized the ongoing growth in East Alabama and aimed to provide a conveniently located medical practice for the community.
Following the success of our Opelika location, Preferred Medical Group established its fourth site in Auburn, further solidifying our commitment to accessible healthcare across East Alabama.
In response to ongoing community needs, Dr. Chandra identified a crucial gap in services and launched Preferred ABA in Columbus in October 2021 to support the ASD community. Additionally, recognizing the increasing demand for accessible mental health services, she acquired The Psychology Clinic in Columbus in May 2024.
We are currently expanding our Phenix City location to include dedicated facilities for pediatrics, family medicine, and mental health, ensuring that we can provide comprehensive care tailored to the diverse needs of our community.