A Detroit resident on the east side, juggling work and family, finds it challenging to access healthcare services that are often located far from home. The time and resources needed to travel across the city for something as simple as a vaccination or a health screening can be a significant burden.
The state ranked 29th out of 39 states examined in overall health care delivered to Black residents according to the nonprofit research firm’s The Commonwealth Fund 2024 State Health Disparities Report.
Michigan’s healthcare system’s severe racial disparities are why the opening of the Detroit Health Department Satellite Hub at the Samaritan Center on Detroit’s eastside is so impactful. It brings critical services directly to the community, making it easier for residents to prioritize their health without the added stress of long commutes or missed workdays.
The satellite center is designed to operate on weekdays and will be staffed by clinicians from the Health Department, who are equipped to meet the healthcare needs of the local community. This center is part of a broader effort to bring essential health services directly to Detroiters, particularly in underserved areas.
At the ribbon-cutting event, Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo highlighted the significance of reintroducing Detroit Health Department services to the east side community. She stated, “By re-introducing Detroit Health Department services here, we are bringing resources directly to the east side community as we continue to go beyond the walls and help Detroiters achieve their personal goals for a healthy lifestyle.” This reintroduction of services is intended to make it easier for residents to access the healthcare they need, without the barriers that often accompany traveling to other parts of the city.
The Grand Opening and Open House invited Detroiters to explore the new satellite clinic. Health Department staff provided tours of the facility and offered outreach and information on the various programs available at the hub. These programs include SisterFriends Detroit, CeaseFire Detroit, Immunizations, and services for Women, Infants, and Children. The event served as an opportunity for the community to familiarize themselves with the new services and to connect with the Health Department staff.
Dr. Iris Taylor, Administrator of Clinical Programs, expressed her hope that the new location will encourage residents to take proactive steps in managing their health. She said, “It is our hope that our residents will take advantage of this new location to take care of their health, whether they need to get up to date on vaccinations or get health screenings.” The satellite hub is intended to make these services more accessible, thereby supporting the health and well-being of the community.
The Detroit Health Department Samaritan Center Satellite Hub is located at 5555 Conner Street, Suite 2224. It will be open on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about the services offered, residents can call 313-876-4554 or visit the Detroit Health Department’s website at detroitmi.gov/health. This new hub is a strategic effort to ensure that health services are within reach for Detroiters, particularly those living on the east side.