#United States #Washington D.C. #urgent care #MedStar Health #Gallaudet University

MedStar Health Expands Urgent Care Services

In a significant development for residents of Washington D.C. and students at Gallaudet University, MedStar Health has unveiled its latest urgent care facility in the NoMa neighborhood. This new site marks the organization’s commitment to providing accessible healthcare services to one of the most vibrant communities in the capital.

Located directly across from the NoMa-Gallaudet University Metro Station, the new urgent care center stands at 1231 3rd Street, NE, strategically placing itself within easy reach for both students and local residents. The facility not only supports the health care needs of the university's students but also enhances the overall accessibility of urgent medical care in the area.

MedStar Health has been a cornerstone of health care for Gallaudet University, acting as the official medical team for the institution's athletes for over a decade. The new urgent care center will broaden the scope of services available to all students, expanding beyond their traditional role.

Dr. B. Elizabeth Delasobera, the vice president and chief medical officer of MedStar Health Ambulatory Services, emphasized the goal behind this expansion: “Our aim is to be where patients need us the most. By opening this facility, we are enhancing healthcare access not just for residents but also for students, ultimately improving health outcomes over time.”

The state-of-the-art urgent care center occupies nearly 4,000 square feet and features numerous medical facilities, including:

• - Seven examination rooms
• - One X-ray room
• - Two triage areas
• - An on-site laboratory for immediate testing

Among the comprehensive services available at this site are:

• - On-site lab testing
• - Rapid PCR tests for flu, strep throat, COVID-19, and RSV
• - Immediate results for rapid STI and HIV testing
• - X-ray services with prompt radiologist interpretation
• - EKGs for cardiac monitoring
• - Access to telehealth consultations with specialists in fields like cardiology, emergency medicine, orthopedics, and more
• - Language interpretation services, including American Sign Language (ASL)

With operating hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, Gallaudet University students now have crucial medical support nearby. Previously, students often had to wait until the on-campus health services reopened to address health concerns. This new facility aims to reduce such delays, allowing students to seek necessary healthcare more efficiently.

Mariko Kobanawa, head athletic trainer and health care administrator for Gallaudet University, shared her enthusiasm for this partnership: “MedStar Health has been incredibly supportive of our athletic programs, and their commitment to patient care is unmatched. Having an urgent care clinic right next to our campus will empower our deaf and hard of hearing students to receive the care they need without unnecessary hurdles.”

Overall, this new MedStar Health Urgent Care location stands as a testament to the organization's dedication to enhancing healthcare access in the region. With 35 urgent care facilities across Maryland, Washington D.C., and northern Virginia, MedStar Health continues to prioritize community health needs effectively.

The new NoMa urgent care center is the fourth in D.C., with plans for a fifth facility in the Van Ness neighborhood slated to open in early 2027. For more details on services and urgent care offerings, visit the MedStar Health Urgent Care website.