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WSU, Spokane Public Schools Launch Health Clinic at Logan Elementary

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ls-launch-health-clinic-at-logan-elementary.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 15:04 GMT by KHQ
      Locales: Washington, UNITED STATES

SPOKANE - In a move hailed as a significant step toward addressing healthcare disparities and bolstering community well-being, Washington State University (WSU) and Spokane Public Schools (SPS) are collaborating to launch a comprehensive primary care health clinic at Logan Elementary School. The clinic, slated to open in early 2026, aims to provide accessible and integrated healthcare services not only to students and their families but also to the wider surrounding community.

Superintendent Adam Swiney emphasized the clinic's potential impact, stating, "This clinic will serve as a hub for comprehensive, integrated care, reducing barriers to access and health disparities for our students and their families." This statement highlights a critical need within the Spokane area - the challenge many face in obtaining timely and affordable primary healthcare. Logan Elementary's location in a densely populated neighborhood makes it an ideal central point for reaching underserved populations.

The clinic represents a unique partnership leveraging the strengths of both institutions. WSU, through its Health Sciences faculty and students, will provide the medical expertise and personnel necessary to operate a full-service primary care facility. This offers invaluable practical experience for future healthcare professionals while simultaneously addressing a community need. Dr. Christopher J. Lyon, Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs at WSU, expressed enthusiasm, saying, "We're excited to provide this vital service and bring our expertise in health care to the community." The involvement of WSU Health Sciences signals a commitment to a long-term, sustainable model, going beyond a simple short-term intervention.

Funding for the initiative comes from the Washington State Department of Commerce, demonstrating the state's recognition of the importance of integrated school-based health centers. The Department of Commerce has been increasingly focused on initiatives that promote community resilience and equitable access to essential services, making this partnership a natural fit. The exact amount of funding hasn't been disclosed, but it's expected to cover initial setup costs, staffing, and operational expenses for the first several years.

Beyond Basic Primary Care: A Holistic Approach to Wellness

The Logan Elementary clinic isn't envisioned as a traditional doctor's office simply treating illness. Plans indicate a holistic approach to wellness, incorporating preventative care, chronic disease management, and mental health services. This is particularly crucial for children, as early intervention can significantly impact long-term health outcomes. The clinic aims to offer services such as:

• Well-child visits & Immunizations: Ensuring children receive routine check-ups and necessary vaccinations.
• Acute care: Treating common illnesses like colds, flu, and infections.
• Chronic disease management: Providing ongoing care for conditions like asthma, diabetes, and allergies.
• Mental health support: Offering counseling and referrals for children and families struggling with emotional or behavioral health challenges.
• Health Education: Workshops and resources on topics such as nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyles.
• Family Health Services: Extending care to parents and guardians, addressing their health needs alongside their children's.

Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Spokane

Spokane, like many cities across the nation, faces significant healthcare disparities, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods. Limited access to transportation, lack of insurance coverage, and language barriers are just a few of the obstacles that prevent individuals from receiving the care they need. School-based health clinics have proven to be effective in bridging these gaps. By locating the clinic directly within Logan Elementary, SPS and WSU eliminate many of these barriers. Parents can access care during school hours, reducing the need to take time off work or find childcare. The clinic's presence also fosters a sense of trust and familiarity within the community.

The success of the Logan Elementary clinic could pave the way for similar partnerships at other schools within the Spokane Public Schools district. Superintendent Swiney hinted at the possibility of expanding the model if the initial clinic proves successful, stating that SPS is "committed to exploring innovative ways to support the health and well-being of our students and families." This suggests a broader vision of creating a network of school-based health clinics throughout the city, transforming the landscape of healthcare access for generations to come. The clinic's address is 411 E Butler St, Spokane, WA 99202, making it geographically accessible to a large portion of the community it seeks to serve.

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between WSU and SPS is a testament to the power of partnerships in addressing complex social issues. By combining the resources and expertise of both institutions, they are creating a model that has the potential to improve the health and well-being of the entire Spokane community.