Peter Christensen Health Clinic of Lac du Flambeau
Improving Health Care for the Lac du Flambeau Band of Chippewa
Challenge: Original Building Generic & Small
With an undersized clinic, the Lac du Flambeau Band of Chippewa was struggling to meet its members’ health needs. The building was originally designed for office space, not medical or dental services. Over time, the structure had become outdated, and its limitations were jeopardizing proper care and privacy. Another concern: The building lacked a cultural imprint to help encourage healthy living for tribal members.
Solution: An Expandable Building That Puts Patients First
The Lac du Flambeau Band needed a new facility—one that elevates the importance and accessibility of excellent medical and dental care for its members.
After securing funding, including a significant grant through Indian Health Services (IHS), tribal leaders chose DSGW Architects to design a modern health care clinic. DSGW initiated its master planning process and met with Lac du Flambeau stakeholders to discuss: services, clinic’s staff to patient ratio, cultural factors that best promote healing.
After discussing these topics and more, DSGW created a master plan for a 26,000 square foot health center that houses a family practice, urgent care, pharmacy, imaging center, lab, and staff areas. The heart of the clinic is a circular commons area that highlights the heritage of the tribe. Beautiful outdoor-themed murals adorn the high walls, and a rustic post-and-beam wood ceiling creates an earthy feel.
With all services under one roof, the clinic provides simplified access to health care. As an added convenience, it’s located next to the Band’s community and wellness center.
Based on projections for tribal use, the clinic has been designed to expand easily—up to double in size, if necessary. A new dental expansion is currently underway.
Benefits
Smooth compliance with USDA rural development, IHS, and tribal employment requirements
DSGW’s expertise made complying with USDA, IHS, and tribal employment requirements a snap. Local leaders enjoyed peace-of-mind, knowing DSGW was well-versed with the needs of a large tribal project.
Cultural significance
The state-of-the-art clinic incorporates key elements of the Band’s culture. The exterior, with its low-peak green roofs and wood-sided highlights, reflects the building’s forest setting. Hardwood trees cleared from the building site were salvaged, milled, and used to naturalize the clinic’s interior. Local artifacts, including native photography and artwork, complete the distinctive decor. The result is a welcoming, familiar, and meaningful environment for tribal members.
Ability to expand through master planning
DSGW’s master planning process makes room for future growth. By planning ahead, tribal leaders can easily expand individual clinic services—without altering the original site plan or disrupting patient flow.
