When longtime Atlanta physician Dr. T. Douglas Gurley closed his Midtown practice, many patients wondered where they could turn for the same kind of compassionate, LGBTQ-affirming care he was known for. For years, Dr. Gurley provided a safe, respectful environment where everyone—especially members of Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community—could receive expert primary care without judgment.
Today, that legacy lives on just across the road at Somerset Medical, a concierge-style primary care practice founded by Dr. Nicholas Church and supported by Helen Williams, the very same nurse who cared for so many of Dr. Gurley’s patients. Together, they’ve created a welcoming new medical home that combines relationship-based medicine with modern, accessible care for all.
A New Home for Dr. Gurley’s Former Patients
Located in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward, near where Dr. Gurley’s office once stood, Somerset Medical offers a familiar sense of comfort and trust. Many former patients of Dr. Doug Gurley have already found their way to Dr. Church and Helen, appreciating the same warmth, continuity, and discretion they valued before.
But Somerset isn’t simply a continuation—it’s an evolution. The practice blends old-fashioned bedside care with today’s best diagnostic tools and concierge accessibility: same-day or next-day appointments, direct messaging with your doctor, and longer, unhurried visits that put the focus back on you.
What Makes Somerset Medical Different
At Somerset Medical, inclusion isn’t a tagline—it’s built into every part of the experience. Dr. Church and Helen share a belief that quality primary care should be personal, transparent, and free from bias. Every patient is treated with dignity, whether they’re managing chronic conditions, exploring preventive care, or seeking trusted guidance on sexual and mental health.
Patients often tell us how reassuring it feels to see familiar faces. Helen’s continuity of care bridges the gap between Dr. Gurley’s former practice and Somerset’s modern approach. Her compassion and knowledge of LGBTQ+ health issues—combined with Dr. Church’s 24 years of internal medicine experience—make Somerset a natural fit for anyone looking for an affirming medical home in Atlanta.
Culturally Competent, Relationship-Based Medicine
National studies show that LGBTQ+ patients still encounter barriers to equitable care—from limited provider knowledge to lack of safe spaces for honest conversation. Dr. Church is committed to changing that reality by ensuring his entire team is trained, empathetic, and experienced in LGBTQ-specific health concerns.
From PrEP and HIV prevention to routine screenings, hormone management support, and mental-health conversations, patients can speak freely knowing their doctor understands both the science and the human experience behind their care.
A Philosophy Rooted in Respect and Simplicity
Somerset Medical was built around six core values: relationships, simplicity, honesty, respect, expertise, and passion. It’s healthcare stripped of red tape and centered on people—not paperwork. Patients enjoy straightforward communication, transparent pricing, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing their provider personally.
As Dr. Church often says, “Healthcare works best when there’s trust on both sides of the exam room.”
Carrying Forward Dr. Gurley’s Vision
For the LGBTQ+ community that Dr. T. Douglas Gurley served so well, Somerset Medical stands as the next chapter of that story—a place where compassionate medicine and inclusivity remain at the heart of care. Dr. Church and Helen are honored to continue that mission, offering the same level of professionalism and empathy that Dr. Gurley inspired in so many.
If you were a patient of Dr. Doug Gurley, or you’re simply seeking a primary care home that feels personal, respectful, and affirming, we invite you to discover Somerset Medical—located in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward at Studioplex near Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine.
Reach out to us by texting or calling (470) 666-5567 to talk with Dr. Church or schedule a time to come by and visit us in person.