Senator Chris Coons Visits Westside Family Healthcare, Celebrates Federal Investment in Community Health Innovation

^{Pictured L to R: Henrique Jaime, FMC Site Residency Director; Heather Patosky, Director of External Affairs; John Hundley, Chief Operating Officer; Thomas Stephens, Chief Medical Officer; Chris Coons, United States Senator; Chris Fraser; President & Chief Executive Officer; Maggie Norris Bent, Chief Strategy Officer; Megan Werner, Associate Medical Director of Population Health and Quality; Thomas Sweeney, Chair of the Board of Westside Family Healthcare}

[WILMINGTON, DELAWARE] – [May 6, 2025] — U.S. Senator Chris Coons joined Westside Family Healthcare on May 2 for a firsthand look at the organization’s newly renovated health center at 4th and Scott Streets in Wilmington — the culmination of a decade-long capital campaign to modernize care for Delaware families. 

Senator Chris Coons toured Westside’s newly transformed Wilmington health center — a project made possible in part by federal funding he championed through Congressionally Directed Spending in 2022. The newly renovated space brings modern, team-based care to the forefront with redesigned clinical areas that boost efficiency, foster collaboration, and expand training for future primary care physicians. During the visit, Senator Coons met with care teams and physician leaders, and heard stories of patients whose experiences are already being shaped by these improvements — a powerful reflection of Westside’s deep commitment to health equity, innovation, and community-centered care.  

“Westside Family Healthcare provides critical services and support to families up and down our state, and I’m proud to have joined my colleagues in the Delaware congressional delegation to secure the funding to make their continued success possible,” said U.S. Senator Chris Coons. “Westside is a testament to how small operations can play a huge role in promoting community health, and this visit was a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting back against attempts by Republicans to slash the Medicaid funding and other federal support that our health centers need to continue serving Delawareans every day.” 

The redesigned second floor includes modern clinical spaces tailored to support Westside’s collaborative care model. Key improvements include: 

• Two new “team pods” with exam, consult, and vitals rooms that promote seamless collaboration among providers, nurses, medical assistants, and care coordinators 
• Centralized waiting areas to enhance patient flow and comfort 
• Upgraded infrastructure including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems for improved clinical operations 
• Expanded training space for Westside’s Family Medicine Physician Residency Program, operated in partnership with ChristianaCare 

“We were honored to have Senator Coons join us today and see firsthand how these renovations are transforming the patient experience and strengthening our workforce,” said Chris Fraser, President & CEO of Westside Family Healthcare. “This investment in our physical space directly supports our mission — making care more accessible, more coordinated, and more effective for the communities we serve.” 

Built in 1998, the original facility layout no longer supported the dynamic, coordinated care model Westside delivers today. These renovations represent a crucial step in ensuring the organization can continue to provide high-quality, integrated care in a modern, efficient environment. Senator Coons praised the project, noting its role in addressing health disparities and preparing the next generation of primary care providers.  

The renovations complete the final phase of Westside’s 10-year capital campaign, supported by a coalition of federal and philanthropic funders including HRSA, The Longwood Foundation, The Welfare Foundation, Delaware Community Foundation, Crestlea Foundation, and the Crystal Trust. 

About Westside Family Healthcare 

Westside Family Healthcare is a community-based, federally qualified health center offering comprehensive primary care services to individuals and families throughout Delaware, regardless of ability to pay. Since 1988, Westside has been a trusted source of quality care for underserved communities. In 2024, Westside receive 31% of its total budget from the Health Resources & Services Administration.