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DePaul Health Opens Second Clinic in Bridgeport, Expanding Healthcare Access

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. c-in-bridgeport-expanding-healthcare-access.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, March 20th 2026 at 17:48 GMT by WGNO
      Locale: UNITED STATES

BRIDGEPORT, Ill. - March 20th, 2026 - DePaul Community Health Centers officially opened the doors to its second location in Bridgeport today, marking a significant step in expanding access to comprehensive healthcare services for underserved communities on Chicago's South Side. The new facility, located at 3100 S. Ashland Ave., Suite 200, aims to replicate the success of DePaul's established Near West Side center and provide critical care to a historically vulnerable population.

For over 35 years, DePaul Community Health Centers has operated as a vital safety net provider, offering affordable and accessible healthcare regardless of a patient's ability to pay. Executive Director Melissa Hernandez emphasized the organization's commitment to this mission during a ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning. "We are incredibly excited to expand our footprint and bring much-needed healthcare services to the Bridgeport community," she stated. "This isn't just about opening a new clinic; it's about fulfilling our promise to serve more people, more effectively, and at the right time."

The decision to locate in Bridgeport wasn't arbitrary. The neighborhood, while experiencing some revitalization, still faces significant health disparities. Data from the Chicago Department of Public Health consistently indicates higher rates of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and asthma in the area compared to the city average. Limited access to primary care, coupled with socioeconomic factors, contribute to these disparities. The closure of several smaller, independent practices in recent years further exacerbated the situation, creating a pressing need for accessible, comprehensive care.

The Bridgeport center is designed to address these needs by offering a full suite of services under one roof. Beyond traditional primary care, the center provides crucial behavioral health services - including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care - recognizing the strong link between mental and physical wellbeing. Dental care, often overlooked in broader healthcare discussions, is also a key component, understanding its impact on overall health and quality of life. This integrated approach is central to DePaul's philosophy.

"We see the patient as a whole person," Hernandez explained. "Addressing physical health isn't enough if someone is struggling with anxiety or depression, or if they lack access to preventative dental care. We want to provide a holistic approach that truly supports their wellbeing."

However, DePaul's commitment extends beyond direct medical services. Recognizing that healthcare is just one piece of the puzzle, the organization is actively building partnerships with local community organizations to offer supportive services. These collaborations will focus on addressing social determinants of health - the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. Currently confirmed partners include the Bridgeport Workforce Alliance, offering job training and placement services, and the local branch of the YMCA, providing health education programs and fitness classes. Discussions are also underway with several food banks to address food insecurity in the area.

The center's hours of operation, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., are designed to accommodate the schedules of working families and individuals. DePaul accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, and offers a sliding fee scale for uninsured patients, ensuring affordability. The center is also actively recruiting bilingual staff to better serve the diverse Bridgeport community.

Looking ahead, DePaul envisions the Bridgeport location as a model for future expansion. Hernandez hinted at the possibility of opening additional centers in other underserved neighborhoods across Chicago, contingent on funding and community need. "We believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their zip code," she said. "This is just the beginning of our efforts to build a healthier Chicago, one community at a time."

The opening of the Bridgeport location represents a vital investment in the health and wellbeing of a community that has long been overlooked. By providing comprehensive, affordable, and culturally sensitive care, DePaul Community Health Centers is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and families.