Legacy Health opened a new primary care clinic in Ridgefield on July 14, introducing a team-based medical model intended to address a shortage of providers in the rapidly growing area of Clark County.

The facility, located at 536 S. Royle Road, Suite 1, is situated approximately 14 miles north of Vancouver. According to reporting by The Reflector, the clinic was established to meet increasing demand as the local population expands. This growth has been a consistent focus for regional planners; as previously reported on August 4, 2026, Clark County recently finalized its environmental review for a 10-year comprehensive growth management plan to accommodate such development.

The new clinic departs from the traditional model of a single provider for each patient. Instead, it utilizes care teams consisting of one physician and two advanced practice clinicians, such as physician assistants or nurse practitioners. This structure is designed to ensure patients can see another team member if their primary clinician is unavailable.

Beyond medical providers, the clinic integrates a variety of support staff to address both clinical and non-medical needs, including:

• Medical assistants and registered nurses
• On-site clinical pharmacists for chronic disease management
• Behavioral health clinicians for mental health and lifestyle changes
• Nurse case managers and social workers

Dr. Tad Lowder, Southwest Washington regional medical director for Legacy Medical Group, stated that the inclusion of clinical pharmacists is intended to help manage patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. The behavioral health staff are available for acute scenarios as well as support for tobacco cessation and weight loss goals.

To accommodate working residents, the clinic has established extended operating hours:

• Monday through Friday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday: 8 a.m. to noon

The clinic also maintains a minimum of 22 daily slots for same-day appointments.

Legacy Health officials indicated that the Ridgefield facility is expected to expand over the next several years. Future plans include adding more provider teams and introducing specialty care services. According to the news release, these additions are intended to reduce the need for Ridgefield residents to travel to Salmon Creek, Vancouver, or Portland for routine specialty appointments. A new observation unit is currently scheduled to open in the first half of 2027.

Source: Legacy Health emphasizes team-based care as Ridgefield clinic expands access