Kaweah Health Opens New Clinic in Woodlake

WOODLAKE, Calif. — Kaweah Health held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new Woodlake clinic on Thursday, April 3. Scheduled to open by the end of April, this is the second Woodlake clinic for the health care district.

The increasing need for services in Woodlake prompted the second clinic, named Kaweah Health Valencia Clinic, as the number of patients and physicians were outgrowing the current facility. The Valencia Clinic will focus on primary care while the current clinic will remain in operation serving pediatric patients.

"Our rural clinics allow us to bridge the gap between distance and care, ensuring patients receive the continuous medical attention they need and deserve," said Gary Herbst, CEO of Kaweah Health. "From preventative screenings to chronic disease management, these clinics provide essential services that help keep our communities healthy."

Dr. Rocio Medina, a native of Woodlake, said she benefitted from those services in her community as a child.

"I went into medicine because I wanted to make a difference. I didn't realize I would be back to practice at the same clinic I went to as a child," Dr. Medina said. "It is an honor and a privilege to take care of the community. I hope the community continues to trust us. We are providing the best care possible for everyone."

Woodlake Mayor Rudy Mendoza reminisced about when the only medical care in Woodlake was a mobile trailer in an empty lot that now houses the Rite Aid.

"I have witnessed a lot of change," Mendoza said. "It is great to see Kaweah Health make this investment in the community."

Supervisor Eddie Valero said Kaweah Health's presence in the smaller communities is important to the well-being of Tulare County residents.

"Kaweah Health has an imprint in every single community I serve," Valero said. "Their focus is on family, their focus is on the community, and their focus is on health care."

Initially the clinic will have primary care, however specialists will be added as it gets established. Herbst said Kaweah Health's rural health clinics offer access to affordable care needed in these communities, taking care of people where they are.

"These clinics aren't just healthcare facilities; they are lifelines," Herbst said. "By offering care close to home, we empower families to take charge of their health, prevent costly emergency visits, and build a healthier future for themselves and their loved ones."

Kaweah Health Valencia Clinic is located at 132 S. Valencia Blvd and Kaweah Health Woodlake Clinic is located at 180 E. Antelope Ave. The clinics are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For appointments, call 559-564-1800.