Northwestern Medicine built an outpatient center that will offer 14 specialties, including immediate care, pediatrics and women's health.
Medical Director Dr. Kimbra Bell said that every day, at least 1,000 patients from the surrounding zip codes access a Northwestern Medicine facility.
She says they talked to residents to get it just right.
"The original footprint of this facility was 80,000-square-feet. But, in listening to the community and some the things they wanted to see here, our community is now 120,000-square-feet. One of the things that the community was very passionate about was pediatrics and something for the children. That was not in our original footprint. But after listening to them, it is," Bell said.
The facility will be able to offer MRI, CT, Ultrasound, X-ray, DEXA and screening mammography imaging and physical therapy.
The fifth floor will offer a cancer center with medical oncology and infusion services, dermatology and cardiovascular services.
Mental health services will also be available at the facility.
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Northwestern also plans to offer fitness and cooking classes at the Bronzeville location.
The facility is located at 4822 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
"When you look at neighborhoods like Bronzeville and other similar neighborhoods, areas that have been traditionally disinvested, underserved, overlooked, as a Black woman, serving this community, there are no words. There are no words," Bell said.
It's a major win for Bronzeville residents.
"It shows growth in the community. The community is changing for the better," Tucker said.
Charlene Odum was all smiles walking in.
For her, it means a shorter commute and free parking, which she believes will encourage more South Side patients to be proactive and stay on top of their health.
"It's up the street. I have no excuse now. It's right there in front of my eyes," Odum said.
Jabarri Tucker, who has lived in the area since he was 3, says the facility is breathing new life into the community.
"We're right here next to the Walmart that's gone. There are other stores and facilities that didn't make it; so, I'm glad to see something being added in the area," Tucker said.
Walk-in appointments are available for immediate care. Visit Northwestern's website to make a general appointment.