In an effort to help increase access to quality health care for its nearly 30,000 patients, the Community Health Centers of Lane County (CHCLC) has opened a new rapid access clinic in Eugene. The clinic is conveniently located at 3321 W. 11th Avenue, with easy access to public transportation and ample parking. The clinic is the seventh CHCLC site and marks a significant expansion for the organization.
“This clinic really is about ensuring our patients have access to the care they need, when they need it,” said Lane County Health & Human Services Director Eve Gray. “Often patients simply can’t wait for the next available appointment, and this clinic affords same-day quality care.”
By creating a rapid, same-day access point the CHCLC aims to improve its patients' health outcomes, reduce barriers to care, and reduce overall utilization of the emergency room and emergency services. Specifically, since 12 percent of the CHCLC's patient population is experiencing homelessness and experiences significant barriers to making appointments at all, the flexibility of this clinic will improve their ability to access care when it's possible for them. The clinic will offer most of the services patients enjoy at other CHCLC locations but with same-day appointments and walk-in service. It is important to note the new clinic is not an urgent care clinic and will only be open to established, new, or potential CHCLC patients.
To mark the opening of this significant investment in the health of the people of Lane County, the CHCLC will host a grand opening celebration this Wednesday, September 25, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the clinic’s front parking lot. The celebration will include remarks from Lane County Board of County Commissioners Chair Laurie Trieger, Lane County Health & Human Services Director Eve Gray, and CHCLC Family Nurse Practitioner and Associate Medical Director Briana Axline.