Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center (CDFMC) stands as a vital healthcare provider in Seattle’s Central District, a neighborhood with a rich African American history. Established in 1968 by the Seattle Black Panther Party, the clinic carries the name of Carolyn Downs, a dedicated founder who tragically passed away from cervical cancer.
As one of the two clinics under the Country Doctor Community Health Center umbrella, Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center is strategically located in the heart of the Central District, near Swedish Cherry Hill. It operates as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), driven by a mission to enhance community health. This is achieved by delivering compassionate, high-quality primary healthcare that is culturally sensitive and accessible to all, regardless of their financial circumstances.
The clinic serves a diverse patient base, reflecting the multicultural tapestry of Seattle. Approximately 30% of patients identify as African American and 30% as Latinx, with a significant representation of immigrants from various backgrounds. Spanish is frequently spoken within the clinic, highlighting its commitment to linguistic accessibility. Medical residents gain valuable experience at Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center, managing the healthcare needs of diverse obstetrics, pediatrics, and geriatrics patients, while also performing a broad spectrum of medical procedures. Country Doctor Community Clinic, CDFMC’s sister clinic, is situated a short distance away and specializes in HIV medicine.
Patients at Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center and Country Doctor have access to a wide array of integrated services, including:
- Adolescent healthcare
- Management of chronic conditions
- Geriatric health assessments
- Hepatitis C treatment
- HIV care and case management
- Transgender health services
- Re-entry support programs for individuals transitioning from incarceration
- School-based health clinics at Nova High School and Meany Middle School
- Carolyn Downs Youth Mentorship Program: a resident-led initiative providing healthcare career training for local high school students.
Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center remains deeply rooted in its community-focused origins, continuing to provide essential and comprehensive healthcare services to the residents of Seattle’s Central District and beyond.
