Denver Health to Open New Family Health Center in Southeast Denver
In a significant move to enhance healthcare access, Denver Health announced plans to open a new family health center in southeast Denver next year. The health system recently signed a letter of intent to lease a space in Tiffany Plaza, located off Hampden Avenue. Donna Lynne, CEO of Denver Health, emphasized the center’s role in introducing a unique healthcare model that combines primary and specialty care under one roof.
As the city’s "safety net" hospital, Denver Health is partially funded by Denver taxpayers, having benefited from a 0.34-point sales tax increase aimed at generating $70 million to alleviate financial pressures from rising uncompensated care costs. The new facility will encompass a comprehensive outpatient service that includes laboratory, radiology, and pharmacy services, covering several specialties such as cardiology, orthopedics, and dermatology. Denver City Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell expressed optimism about the extensive resources the center will provide to meet the community’s healthcare needs.
The new health center is slated to begin seeing patients in late 2024, expanding access to primary care services and fulfilling commitments made during the recent ballot measure passed by Denver voters. This development comes amidst a notable rise in patients from South and Central America seeking care at Denver Health, which has reported a staggering 700% increase in such cases over the last 14 months. Many of these patients lack medical insurance, placing additional financial strain on the health system. Dr. Taylor McCormick, associate director of Pediatrics Emergency Medicine at Denver Health, highlighted the challenges posed by this demographic shift, stressing the necessity for accessible healthcare options in the area.
This initiative represents a proactive step toward addressing the evolving healthcare landscape in Denver and ensuring comprehensive service delivery to all residents.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com
