New Integrated Health Care Program Enhances Patient Wellness 

SouthLight launches Integrated Health Care Program for whole-person wellness 

SouthLight Healthcare is proud to introduce its new Integrated Health Care Program, which monitors and improves participants’ physical health while assessing its impact on overall patient health outcomes. This innovative program underscores SouthLight’s commitment to whole-person care, addressing both mental and physical health needs. 

Meet Dr. Peter Manu: Lead Physician for Integrated HealthCare 

SouthLight welcomes Dr. Peter Manu as the Lead Physician for Integrated Health Care. Dr. Manu is an Internal Medicine specialist with decades of experience in managing medical conditions among individuals with mental illness and substance use challenges.  

With an extensive academic background, Dr. Manu has been a professor at prestigious institutions, including the University of Connecticut School of Medicine and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is also a co-editor of the Handbook of Medicine in Psychiatry, a key resource in the field. His expertise will be instrumental in guiding SouthLight’s efforts and bridging the gap between mental and physical healthcare. 

About the Integrated Health Care Program 

SouthLight’s Integrated Health Care Program provides primary care screening and monitoring in the same safe, supportive environment where participants receive mental health and substance use treatment. This on-site care model aims to: 

• Improve the physical health of our clients 
• Reduce reliance on emergency healthcare services 
• Offer timely medical intervention and coordinated support

Key Features of the Program 

Screening & Assessment 

Clients will undergo annual screenings to identify medical conditions that require attention. 

Medical Stabilization 

Individuals identified as medically unstable—due to uncontrolled chronic conditions, new illnesses, or worsening symptoms—will be referred to Dr. Manu for treatment and monitoring until their health stabilizes. 

Ongoing Monitoring & Care Coordination 

Once stable, clients will be connected to permanent primary care providers, facilitated by SouthLight’s Integrated Health Care Coordinator. 

Comprehensive Health Services 

The program offers: 

• Cardiovascular health screenings 
• Metabolic monitoring 
• HIV/STI/Hep C testing
• Tobacco cessation services   

A Commitment to Whole-Person Care 

As part of SouthLight’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) designation, the Integrated Healthcare Program will track key health metrics, including blood pressure control and metabolic health, to promote holistic well-being for all clients. 

This initiative is more than just a service—it represents SouthLight’s mission of fostering resilience and recovery through compassionate, integrated care.