Michael Jordan recently celebrated the inauguration of a new health clinic in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he teamed up with Novant Health to open the third Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinic on Greenfield St.
This new clinic aims to provide essential primary care services to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, addressing a cause that is deeply important to Jordan. “Everyone deserves access to quality health care, regardless of where they live or their insurance status,” Jordan remarked during the opening, expressing his inspiration from the success stories emerging from the Charlotte clinics supported by his efforts.
Jordan’s $10 million donation to Novant Health facilitated the construction of two additional clinics in Wilmington. He shared his confidence in the new clinic’s potential to positively affect the local community, noting his profound gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to his hometown.
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During the clinic’s opening, captured exclusively by PEOPLE, Jordan was photographed discussing with Dr. Michael Hoben in the clinic’s lobby. Many patients visiting the new clinic are experiencing primary care for the first time, praising the clinic staff for restoring health and hope.
Ernie Bovio, president of the Novant Health Coastal Region, emphasized the strategic placement of each clinic in the community and highlighted the comprehensive care model designed to address health equity gaps.
The facility features 12 patient rooms and is supported by a primary care team and a community health worker to connect patients with additional community resources.
Ann Caulkins, Senior Vice President of Novant Health, expressed gratitude towards Jordan for his philanthropic efforts, which have significantly impacted local health services. The clinics in Charlotte alone facilitated over 9,000 patient visits last year, demonstrating the impactful reach of this initiative.
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Jordan moved to Wilmington as a young child and has consistently prioritized supporting his North Carolina roots. He recently scaled back his majority stakeholder position in Charlotte’s NBA team, the Hornets, transitioning to a minor ownership role, which he described as a fulfillment of a lifelong dream to be involved with an NBA team in his home state.
Jordan reflected on the Hornets’ name’s return to Charlotte as a moment that united the city’s basketball fans, underscoring the community’s support and enthusiasm.