Pillar Health Racine Clinic Opens at Julian Thomas, Bringing Equitable Care to Underserved Community

New Healthcare Clinic in Racine Aims to Improve Access for Underserved Communities

Racine, Wisconsin is taking a significant step toward improving healthcare access with the opening of a new clinic at Julian Thomas Elementary School. This initiative by Pillar Health marks a major development in providing affordable and accessible medical care to residents of the Lincoln-King neighborhood, which has historically lacked such resources.

The clinic, located at 930 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive (enter through Door #3), began accepting patients on July 21. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), it offers primary medical care for both children and adults. Behavioral health services are expected to launch later this summer, further expanding the range of care available to the community.

Dr. Mary Ouimet, CEO of Pillar Health, emphasized the importance of this project. “This project represents a major milestone in expanding healthcare access in Racine,” she said. “We’ve heard directly from the community that they want accessible, trusted, and affordable care closer to home. That’s exactly what we’re bringing.”

Addressing Longstanding Gaps in Healthcare Access

For years, Racine has been the largest county in Wisconsin without an FQHC. Residents often had to travel over 10 miles to Kenosha or even farther to Milwaukee for essential medical care. This lack of local access posed a significant challenge for many, especially those with limited transportation options. The new clinic aims to eliminate this barrier by offering high-quality care right within the community.

Pillar Health’s approach is centered around inclusive, whole-person care. While school-aged children are a priority during the back-to-school season, the clinic serves patients of all ages, income levels, and backgrounds. Greg Pawell, Pillar Health’s community relations manager, stated, “Whether you’re managing high blood pressure, looking for behavioral health support, or just need a checkup—we’re here for you. This is a clinic for everyone, and always will be.”

Enhancing Accessibility Through Language and Services

Recognizing the diverse needs of the community, the clinic offers bilingual staff and a fully translated Spanish version of its website. This effort supports the growing Latinx population in Racine. Additionally, a bilingual behavioral health provider will join the team in the coming weeks, further strengthening the clinic’s ability to serve the community.

Looking ahead, Pillar Health plans to transition its services in 2026 to the newly constructed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, located across the street. This expanded facility will introduce dental care and deepen the organization’s commitment to integrated, wraparound services. Families will be able to receive comprehensive care without leaving their neighborhood.

Understanding Federally Qualified Health Centers

A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) is a community-based clinic that provides affordable, high-quality care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. These centers receive federal support and must meet strict standards for service delivery, equity, and access. By operating as an FQHC, Pillar Health ensures that care remains accessible to all, regardless of insurance status or financial situation.

Key Details About the New Clinic

• Location: 930 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, inside Julian Thomas Elementary (Door #3)
• Appointments: (262) 771-0035
• Website: pillarhealthcare.org
• Hours:
• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Wednesday, Friday: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• What to Bring:
• Photo ID (if available)
• Insurance card (if insured)
• Proof of income (for sliding fee program, if uninsured)

Note: Pillar Health welcomes all patients, regardless of insurance or immigration status.

Back-to-School Pediatric Care

To support students and families preparing for the new school year, the clinic offers pediatric-focused services, including:

• School and sports physicals
• Required immunizations
• Developmental and wellness screenings
• Updates for chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, allergies)
• Health history documentation for school forms

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Jen Eppinger is on-site five days a week to lead child wellness services. “Our goal is to make sure every child in Racine starts the school year healthy and confident,” Eppinger said.

Commitment to Community Health

The opening of this clinic reflects a broader commitment to addressing health disparities and ensuring that all residents have access to quality care. By embedding healthcare services directly in the community, Pillar Health is making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families in Racine.