In October, North Carolina became home to the second Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinic in the North End Charlotte community.
Michael Jordan, NBA owner of the Charlotte Hornets and six-time NBA Finals Champion, announced that the clinic would open to another community in hopes to serve low-income and uninsured patients, but also aid many others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Novant Health’s first clinic opened last year with the help of a $7 million grant donation from Jordan. The clinics offer several medical services including annual well-child care visits, on-site X-rays, minor procedures of stitches and joint injections, and women’s health services.
“The impact of the first clinic has been measurable and if COVID-19 has taught us anything, it is the importance of having accessible, safe, and quality care in communities that need it most. Michael Jordan’s commitment to improving the health of our communities, and society, is deep-rooted. We’re so grateful to be his partner in bringing care and resources to those who would otherwise be without,” said Carl Armato, CEO and president of Novant Health, in a written statement.
The pandemic, although critical, created an avenue for the health clinic to impact residents and outreach in a greater capacity. Armato shared how having the first clinic open last year enabled a better response for this season. Walk up testing sites and free masks handouts were in place for everyone in need or seeking urgent care.
Jordan and the Novant Health team continue to meet regularly and plan toward the future of Charlotte’s medical scene. Other services they soon look to offer include having a full-time social worker on-site for social-related circumstances, and they aim to further narrow the health equity gap.
“I’m so proud of the positive impact our clinic has had on the community so far, especially during COVID-19. Our second clinic will provide critical services to improve the health and lives of more Charlotteans, which is so important to me and Novant Health,” said Jordan.
