x
Breaking News
More () »

'Our heart is in the right place' | StarMed CEO on what makes the healthcare provider different

On Flashpoint, CEO Michael Estramonte explains how this week's baby formula giveaway came to fruition.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — During the pandemic, StarMed Healthcare grew from a small, local clinic to the go-to source for Charlotteans, distributing COVID tests and giving out vaccines.

"We're always looking for ways to see where we can add value or where there's a challenge in the community,' CEO Michael Estramonte said.

MORE ON WCNC CHARLOTTE: New hospital hiring amidst nursing shortage

On Wednesday, StarMed stepped up during a new crisis:  the national baby formula shortage.  The healthcare provider said they were able to provide about a weeks-worth of formula to about 1,100 babies. 

No registration was required but supplies were limited. The distribution began at noon on Tuesday. StarMed said Monday's shipment arrived early, so they were hoping to distribute even more formula than they intended.

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku and Amazon Fire TV, just download the free app.

"I mean, the baby formula was just it was a great example of how a meeting last Thursday, just ballooned into something that was you know, it was just beautiful and people were very appreciative," Estramonte said.

Still, COVID continues to be a chief focus for StarMed. Estramonte estimates testing is up 50-percent recently.  

"The main objective right now is just to plug ourselves in wherever it makes sense," he said.

With two current locations on Tuckaseegee Rd and Central Avenue, Estramonte said StarMed's newest clinic is coming to South Blvd.

SEE THE FULL STORY SUNDAY AT 11 A.M. ON FLASHPOINT, ONLY ON WCNC CHARLOTTE.

Contact Ben Thompson at bthompson@wcnc.com and follow him on FacebookTwitter and Instagram. 

Flashpoint is a weekly in-depth look at politics in Charlotte, North Carolina, South Carolina, and beyond with host Ben Thompson. Listen to the podcast weekly. 
SUBSCRIBEApple Podcasts || Spotify || Stitcher || Google Podcasts 

All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.

 

Before You Leave, Check This Out