Michael Jordan scores big again! According to USA Today, the six-time NBA champion has opened a healthcare clinic to serve low-income communities in Charlotte, North Carolina. As announced on its Twitter feed, “The Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinic is open for business! 3149 Freedom Drive Charlotte, NC 28202.”
In 2017, Jordan made a $7 million gift, which went toward purchasing the land, building the 6,800 square-foot clinic, and equipping the entire facility—which includes 12 patient exam rooms, an X-ray room, and space for physical therapy. Novant Health will operate the clinic, utilizing a unique integrated services model designed to identify, treat, and support social determinants of health, including embedding a full-time licensed clinical social worker to connect patients with resources that range from bus passes to social support services.
“When I heard Novant Health’s plan to bring not only primary care but other needed services to the community, there was no doubt in my mind that this is where I wanted to help make an impact,” said Jordan. “I feel very fortunate to be able to give back in this way, because I believe that your ZIP code or neighborhood should not determine the quality of your healthcare—or whether or not you can even get care at all.”
In a statement released by Carl Armato, CEO and president of Novant Health, he said, “At Novant Health, we are deeply committed to caring for patients beyond our walls This clinic will not only provide access to medical care for those who need it most, but it will connect them to resources to ensure their health extends beyond the doctor’s office. We are so grateful for Michael Jordan’s continued partnership and generous gift, which will transform thousands of lives in the west Charlotte community.”
“I can only do this in gratitude… I can never repay what you’ve actually given to me, but this is a start.” – Michael Jordan, Hornets Chairman & Owner https://t.co/xzsOCvpMPK
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) October 17, 2019
The former NBA player is the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets and has recently launched a tequila with several NBA owners.