Dr. Joan McClary, left is the director of the new Providence Clinic-East Waco, which is expected to open its doors in six months. It will be the first clinic in east Waco, a traditionally underserved part of the community. When ground was broken on June 19 for the Providence Clinic-East Waco, a couple of traditions were renewed, and another was broken. The Rev. Darrell Caldwell, pastor of Adams Chapel A.M.E. Church, noted a common thread between the historical and current events. Waco City Councilman Lawrence Johnson agreed with Caldwell.
Health care is a necessity.
Caldwell is chairman of the Health Services Committee of the East Waco LiNCs. That has changed, but much work remains before East Waco is fully integrated into the larger community. When Providence Clinic-East Waco opens in about six months, it will be the only medical care available in East Waco. Elm St. Initially, the clinic will be staffed by Dr. Joan McClary, who was hired June 1 and will work in Providence Health Center's Lakeshore Clinic until the East Waco facility is complete. Services at the clinic will include a full range of primary care, along with lab services and X-rays.