Former NBA star Michael Jordan has directed $17 million toward establishing a network of four primary and preventive medical clinics across Charlotte and Wilmington, North Carolina, providing essential healthcare access to vulnerable communities without requiring prior health insurance coverage.
Expanding Healthcare Access in North Carolina
The philanthropic initiative began in 2017 when the basketball player committed an initial investment of $7 million to fund two medical facilities in Charlotte. Operating under the management of Novant Health, the first two locations—designated as the Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinics—opened their doors between 2019 and 2020. These facilities were designed to bridge gaps in the conventional medical system by offering primary care, preventive services, 12 examination rooms, X-ray equipment, and physical therapy areas. Data from the health system indicates that more than 4,500 patients received medical assistance during the first two years of operation across the Charlotte sites.
Growth and Services in Wilmington
Following the establishment of the Charlotte locations, Jordan expanded the project to Wilmington, the city where he spent much of his childhood. In 2021, a subsequent investment of $10 million funded the construction of two additional clinics in the area. The third facility in the network opened in May 2024, encompassing approximately 725 square meters and delivering comprehensive medical services to patients ranging from children to older adults. A fourth clinic subsequently opened in February 2025. Beyond routine checkups, the staff provides integrated support that includes behavioral healthcare, mental health resources, and assistance for basic needs such as stable housing and healthy food provisions.
Community Support and Advanced Neurological Care
The clinic model eliminates financial barriers by not requiring private health insurance, addressing structural hurdles that often cause patients to delay necessary care. Community health workers actively intervene in situations involving food insecurity by distributing provisions and connecting individuals with social services. In addition to the primary care network, Jordan contributed an additional $10 million to establish the Deloris P. Jordan Institute for Neurosciences at the Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Announced in November 2025, this separate investment supports scientific research and advanced treatments for complex neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal disorders.
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