Two Native-centered health clinics will open newly expanded buildings in south Minneapolis next month, improving health care access for a population that faces disproportionately high health disparities and has long lacked adequate access to culturally responsive care.
The projects include a $36 million, 40,000-square-foot addition of new clinic space to the Indian Health Board (IHB) at 2027 E. Franklin Ave., and a $67 million, six-story building at the Native American Community Clinic (NACC), 1213 E. Franklin Ave., that includes expanded health services and 83 affordable housing units.
“It’s critical that the populations in south Minneapolis gain more access to health care,” Ruth Buffalo, CEO of the Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center, said. “It says something of the richness of our values as Indigenous people to these lands that we use a comprehensive approach where all people are welcome. It’s exciting, and it’s hopeful,” said Buffalo, who is also the chair of the health and wellness committee under Metro Urban Indian Directors…