The Broad Street Clinic was founded in 1993 when Dr. Mary Katherine Lawrence and Dr. Arthur Klose recognized a critical need for medical care among community members who did not qualify for health insurance. In partnership with the Carteret County Health Department and Carteret General Hospital (now Carteret Health Care), the clinic opened its doors at the health department on July 20, 1993, serving 22 patients on its very first day.

As demand for services quickly grew, the clinic soon established a home of its own on Broad Street in Beaufort—where it received its name—before relocating in 1996 to its current location in Morehead City. The move provided additional space and closer proximity to the hospital, allowing more providers to volunteer their time and expertise.

From the beginning, the clinic has been powered by the generosity of volunteer physicians, nurses, pharmacists, office staff, and community members. While today the clinic is supported by a small staff, volunteers remain central to its mission. By 1998, the clinic was caring for more than 2,500 patients each year, and by 2000, over 70 medical professionals and volunteers were assisting with more than 8,000 annual patient appointments.

Over the years, the clinic has expanded both its reach and its services:

• 2000 – Began a diabetes education program through a grant.

• 2004 – Expanded into a larger suite and held a grand re-opening.

• 2008 – Opened a satellite location “Down East” to serve patients in more remote areas.

• 2009 – Celebrated 16 years of service with the community on Pharmacy Day.

• 2010 – Launched gynecological services; began a partnership with the Baptists on Mission Dental Van, providing dental care to 36 patients in its first year (now expanded to a mobile dental bus).

• 2014 – Added eye care services.

• 2015 – Expanded to include dental hygiene services.

• 2018 – Introduced Hepatitis C treatment.

The clinic has also been strengthened through a longstanding partnership with Direct Relief, which provides vital resources including hurricane preparedness packs. These supplies allow the clinic to respond quickly to community needs during hurricane season, and unused materials are distributed afterward to support patient care.

From its humble beginnings serving just 22 patients on its first clinic day, Broad Street Clinic has grown into a cornerstone of community healthcare—providing thousands of uninsured and underserved individuals with access to essential medical, dental, vision, and pharmacy services each year.