Understanding the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center represents a cornerstone of healthcare accessibility in South Los Angeles, providing comprehensive medical services to underserved communities. Located at 12021 Wilmington Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90059, this state-of-the-art facility embodies Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of healthcare equality for all people. The center operates as part of the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, serving thousands of patients annually with a commitment to quality, coordinated care.
This ambulatory care center has undergone significant transformation since its inception, evolving from the former King/Drew Medical Center into a modern healthcare facility that opened in 2014. The MLK ambulatory care facility now operates alongside the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital, creating a comprehensive healthcare campus that addresses the diverse medical needs of South Los Angeles residents. With 87 physicians covering 56 specialty areas of medicine, the center provides an extensive range of services under one roof.
The Historical Journey of Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center has a compelling history that reflects both challenges and resilience in community healthcare. Originally opened in 1972 as Martin Luther King Jr. General Hospital, the facility was established days after Dr. King’s assassination as a tribute to his advocacy for healthcare equality. The hospital became a full-service medical center and later transformed into the Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center when it partnered with Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.
In 2007, the hospital faced closure due to patient care concerns and loss of federal funding, creating a significant healthcare gap in South Los Angeles. Nine nearby hospitals were declared “impacted” by the distribution of former patients, with St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood seeing patient volumes increase from 155 to 180 per day. The community clinics experienced a staggering 157 percent increase in visits following the closure.
However, the facility continued operating as the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center, providing urgent care and outpatient services throughout this transition period. In 2014, Los Angeles County invested $208.5 million in constructing a new state-of-the-art outpatient center, marking a fresh beginning for healthcare in the community. This four-level, LEED-Gold-designed facility symbolizes the area’s commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare for all residents.
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Comprehensive Services at the MLK Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
Primary Care Services
The Martin Luther King Jr ambulatory care center offers extensive primary care services designed to serve as your “medical home” where dedicated care teams meet your day-to-day health and wellness needs. Primary care services include family medicine, pediatric and adolescent care, women’s health services, and comprehensive wellness programs. The facility’s patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model ensures that patients receive coordinated care from a consistent team of healthcare professionals.
Adult primary care services focus on preventive medicine, chronic disease management, health screenings, and wellness education. The center provides care for conditions including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, asthma, and other common health concerns. Pediatric services address the unique healthcare needs of children and adolescents, offering immunizations, growth monitoring, developmental assessments, and school physicals. Women’s health services encompass family planning, prenatal care, gynecological care, and comprehensive reproductive health services.
Urgent Care Services
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center operates a robust urgent care clinic open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., providing immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. Located in the Behavioral Health Center at 12021 Wilmington Ave, the urgent care serves as a vital resource for patients requiring prompt medical attention without the wait times typical of emergency departments.
Urgent care services treat minor injuries, infections, fever, flu symptoms, sprains and strains, minor burns, minor cuts requiring stitches, and other acute medical conditions. The facility is equipped with diagnostic capabilities including X-rays and laboratory services, enabling comprehensive evaluation and treatment on-site. Holiday hours extend from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., ensuring community access to medical care throughout the year.
Specialty Care Services
The MLK outpatient center houses over 70 specialty care clinics covering diverse medical disciplines. Specialty services include cardiology for heart health, dermatology for skin conditions, gastroenterology for digestive health, oncology for cancer care, and ophthalmology for eye health. The center also offers the Jeffrey Smith Sickle Cell Disease Clinic, providing specialized care for this genetic blood disorder that disproportionately affects African American populations.
HIV/AIDS services through the Positive Care program offer comprehensive management including antiretroviral therapy, viral load monitoring, CD4 count testing, prevention services, and supportive counseling. Dental services address oral health needs often overlooked in underserved communities, providing preventive care, restorative treatments, and emergency dental services. Most specialty care services and the Ambulatory Surgical Center operate from 1670 East 120th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90059.
Additional Healthcare Services
Behavioral health services at the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center address mental health and substance abuse concerns through the Augustus F. Hawkins Mental Health Center. Services include psychiatric evaluation, individual and group therapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and substance abuse treatment programs. The center recognizes that mental health is integral to overall wellness and provides culturally sensitive mental health care.
Rehabilitation services encompass physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions affecting mobility and function. The on-site outpatient pharmacy operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and weekends from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., providing convenient access to medications prescribed at the center. Laboratory services operate Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., offering comprehensive diagnostic testing including blood work, urinalysis, cultures, and specialized testing.
Accessing Care at Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
Location and Facilities
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center operates across multiple buildings on the 38-acre campus in the Willowbrook neighborhood of South Los Angeles. The main specialty care services and Ambulatory Surgical Center are located at 1670 East 120th Street, while the Urgent Care Clinic and Adult Primary Care Medical Home operate at 12021 Wilmington Ave. This strategic distribution of services across the campus ensures efficient patient flow and specialized care delivery.
The facility features a striking cantilevered clear glass façade that floods the building with natural light while offering panoramic city views. A two-story, light-filled atrium welcomes patients into a modern, healing environment. The design incorporates infection control measures, sustainable materials, and aesthetically pleasing finishes throughout. A circular drive and 10 acres of well-lit, landscaped parking provide safe, convenient access. The entrance features a story-high mural of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., celebrating his legacy of peace, hope, and healthcare advocacy.
Hours of Operation
General clinic hours run Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with appointments available by calling (424) 338-1000. The Martin Luther King Jr ambulatory center urgent care operates daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., providing extended access for working families and those requiring care outside traditional business hours. Holiday hours for urgent care are 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on major holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
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The outpatient pharmacy maintains extended hours to accommodate patients picking up prescriptions after appointments, operating Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with weekend and holiday hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on weekends). Laboratory services operate Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with holiday hours from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Transportation and Accessibility
The MLK Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center is conveniently located one block south of the 105 freeway on the north side of 120th Street, west of Wilmington Avenue. Public transportation access includes Metro bus routes #55 and #120, as well as Gardena Transportation Line #5, with bus stops directly in front of the facility on 120th Street. Ample patient parking is available on the first floor of the ivy-covered parking structure across 120th Street, with additional limited parking available in lots adjacent to specific buildings.
The facility is fully ADA accessible, with wheelchair access throughout the campus, accessible parking spaces near all entrances, and accommodations for patients with mobility challenges. The center provides language line services for patients who speak languages other than English, ensuring that language barriers do not prevent access to quality healthcare. Interpreters are available for in-person appointments, and signage throughout the facility appears in multiple languages reflecting the diverse community served.
Insurance and Payment Options
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center accepts various insurance plans including Medi-Cal, Medicare, L.A. Care Health Plan, Health Net, and other major insurance providers. The center is committed to serving all community members regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Patient Financial Services, reachable at (424) 338-1817, assists patients with insurance enrollment, payment plans, and financial assistance applications for those who qualify.
For patients without insurance, the center offers a sliding fee scale based on household income and family size, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to necessary healthcare. The facility also helps eligible patients enroll in Medi-Cal, Covered California, and other health insurance programs. Billing inquiries can be directed to (424) 338-1000, option 5, where staff members work with patients to establish manageable payment arrangements.
The Medical Home Concept at MLK Ambulatory Care Center
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center embraces the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model, which transforms traditional primary care by emphasizing coordinated, comprehensive care. In this model, patients establish a relationship with a primary care provider and care team who become familiar with their medical history, health goals, and personal circumstances. This continuity of care leads to better health outcomes, reduced emergency department visits, and improved patient satisfaction.
Your medical home serves as the central hub for all your healthcare needs, coordinating referrals to specialists, managing chronic conditions, providing preventive care, and ensuring that all your healthcare providers communicate effectively. The care team includes physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, medical assistants, social workers, and care coordinators who work together to address physical, mental, and social determinants of health. This integrated approach is particularly valuable for patients managing multiple chronic conditions or complex health needs.
Community Impact and Public Health Initiatives
The Martin Luther King Jr ambulatory care facility serves as more than just a healthcare provider—it functions as a community health resource and advocate for public health. The center operates health education programs addressing diabetes management, heart health, nutrition, smoking cessation, and other wellness topics. Community outreach initiatives bring health screenings and education into neighborhoods, schools, and churches, meeting people where they are.
The facility partners with community organizations, social service agencies, and local government to address social determinants of health including housing instability, food insecurity, and access to transportation. Medical-legal partnerships connect patients with attorneys who can address legal issues affecting health, such as housing disputes or disability claims. Similar to how the Cumberland County Department of Social Services in Fayetteville, North Carolina addresses community needs through integrated services, the MLK center recognizes that health extends beyond medical treatment.
Quality and Accreditation
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center maintains rigorous quality standards and accreditation. The facility is OSHPD-3 compliant, meeting California’s strict seismic safety requirements for healthcare facilities. The LEED-Gold designation reflects environmental sustainability and energy efficiency in building design and operations. These certifications demonstrate the center’s commitment to providing care in a safe, modern, and environmentally responsible facility.
Quality improvement initiatives focus on patient safety, clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and operational efficiency. The center tracks metrics including wait times, patient experience scores, clinical quality measures for chronic disease management, and preventive care delivery rates. Regular audits and reviews ensure compliance with Joint Commission standards, California Department of Public Health regulations, and federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services requirements.
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Future Developments and Expansion
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center continues evolving to meet changing community health needs. Recent expansions have added telemedicine capabilities, enabling virtual visits for appropriate conditions and follow-up appointments. This technology improves access for patients with transportation challenges, mobility limitations, or scheduling constraints. The center is exploring additional telehealth services for mental health counseling, chronic disease monitoring, and specialty consultations.
Future plans include expanding behavioral health services to address the growing mental health needs in the community, particularly among youth and young adults. The center is also working to enhance integration between physical and mental health services, recognizing that these aspects of health are interconnected. Partnerships with academic institutions support ongoing medical education, research, and innovation in community healthcare delivery.
Patient Experience at the MLK Center
Patient testimonials highlight the dedication and compassion of staff at the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center. Many patients appreciate the comprehensive care available under one roof, eliminating the need to travel to multiple locations for different services. The cultural sensitivity and language accessibility make patients from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and understood. The facility’s commitment to treating patients with dignity regardless of insurance status or socioeconomic circumstances reflects Dr. King’s vision of healthcare as a fundamental human right.
The center uses electronic health records that allow seamless communication between primary care providers, specialists, and other healthcare team members. Patients can access their medical records, test results, appointment schedules, and educational materials through patient portals. Appointment reminder systems via phone, text, and email help reduce missed appointments and ensure continuity of care.
Comparing Community Health Centers
| Feature | MLK Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center | Traditional Community Clinics |
|---|---|---|
| Specialty Services | 70+ specialty clinics on-site | Limited, mostly referrals |
| Hours of Operation | Extended urgent care: 7:30am-11pm daily | Typically limited to business hours |
| Ambulatory Surgery | On-site surgical center | Usually requires hospital referral |
| Mental Health Integration | Fully integrated behavioral health | Often separate facilities |
| Diagnostic Services | Comprehensive on-site lab and imaging | May require external referrals |
| Pharmacy Services | Extended hours including weekends | Limited hours |
Statistics on Healthcare Access in South Los Angeles
Research demonstrates that community health centers like the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center significantly improve healthcare access and outcomes in underserved areas. Studies show that patients with a medical home experience 20-30% fewer emergency department visits, receive preventive care at higher rates, and report greater satisfaction with their healthcare. The facility serves a predominantly African American and Latino population where nearly all residents are low-income, addressing significant health disparities in these communities.
The South Los Angeles area experiences higher rates of chronic diseases including diabetes, hypertension, and asthma compared to other parts of Los Angeles County. Access to coordinated, comprehensive care through the ambulatory care center helps patients better manage these conditions, reducing hospitalizations and improving quality of life. Preventive services including cancer screenings, immunizations, and health education reach populations that historically faced barriers to these life-saving services.
Contact Information and Resources
Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
Main Campus (Specialty Care): 1670 East 120th Street Los Angeles, CA 90059
Urgent Care and Primary Care: 12021 Wilmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059
Phone Numbers:
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- General Contact & Appointments: (424) 338-1000
- Pharmacy: (424) 338-1961
- Patient Financial Services: (424) 338-1817
- Billing Inquiries: (424) 338-1000 (Option 5)
Website: https://dhs.lacounty.gov/mlk/
For Medical Emergencies: Call 911 or visit Harbor-UCLA Medical Center or LA General Medical Center
Frequently Asked Questions About Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
What services does the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center provide?
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center offers comprehensive healthcare services including primary care, urgent care, over 70 specialty care clinics, an ambulatory surgical center, dental services, behavioral health services, HIV/AIDS care, rehabilitation services, diagnostic services, laboratory testing, and an outpatient pharmacy. The center provides a full spectrum of care from preventive services to complex specialty care.
How do I make an appointment at the MLK ambulatory care center?
To schedule an appointment at the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center, call (424) 338-1000 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. For urgent care, no appointment is necessary—the urgent care clinic operates on a walk-in basis daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. New patients should bring photo identification, insurance cards if applicable, and any relevant medical records.
Does the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center accept walk-ins?
Yes, the Martin Luther King Jr ambulatory care facility accepts walk-in patients at the urgent care clinic for non-life-threatening medical conditions. The urgent care is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with holiday hours from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For primary care and specialty services, appointments are recommended to reduce wait times and ensure provider availability.
What insurance does the MLK ambulatory center accept?
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center accepts Medi-Cal, Medicare, L.A. Care Health Plan, Health Net, and most major insurance plans. The center also serves uninsured patients using a sliding fee scale based on income. Patient Financial Services at (424) 338-1817 can verify insurance coverage, assist with enrollment in health insurance programs, and explain payment options for those without insurance.
Is the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center the same as MLK Hospital?
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center is separate from but adjacent to Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital. The ambulatory care center is operated by Los Angeles County Department of Health Services and focuses on outpatient services, urgent care, and specialty clinics. The hospital, which opened in 2015, is a 131-bed acute care facility operated by a nonprofit partnership between LA County and UCLA. Together, they form a comprehensive healthcare campus.
What languages are spoken at the MLK ambulatory care center?
The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center provides language line services for patients who speak languages other than English. Spanish-speaking staff are available throughout the facility, and interpreters can be arranged for other languages as needed. The center is committed to ensuring that language barriers do not prevent access to quality healthcare for the diverse community it serves.
How do I get to the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center by public transportation?
The MLK Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center is accessible via Metro bus routes #55 and #120, as well as Gardena Transportation Line #5. Bus stops are located directly in front of the facility on 120th Street. The center is one block south of the 105 freeway, making it easily accessible from throughout South Los Angeles and surrounding communities.
Can I get lab work and prescriptions at the same location?
Yes, the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center offers convenient on-site laboratory services Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and an outpatient pharmacy with extended hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., plus weekend and holiday hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This allows patients to complete lab work, see providers, and fill prescriptions all at one location.
Take Action: Access Healthcare at Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center
Don’t let barriers prevent you from accessing quality healthcare. The Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center is committed to serving all community members regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Whether you need urgent care, primary care, specialty services, or help managing chronic conditions, the dedicated healthcare team is ready to support your health journey.
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Call (424) 338-1000 today to schedule your appointment or visit the urgent care clinic at 12021 Wilmington Ave for immediate attention. The center’s patient financial services team can answer questions about insurance coverage, payment options, and assistance programs. Take the first step toward better health by connecting with your medical home at the Martin Luther King Jr Multi Service Ambulatory Care Center.
For more information about services, hours, locations, and resources, visit the official website at https://dhs.lacounty.gov/mlk/ or follow the center on social media for health tips, event announcements, and community resources.
Citations and Sources:
This article draws information from the following authoritative sources:
- Los Angeles County Department of Health Services – Martin Luther King, Jr. Outpatient Center Official Website: https://dhs.lacounty.gov/mlk/
- LA County Services Locator – Martin Luther King Jr. Multi-Service Ambulatory Care Center: https://locator.lacounty.gov/lac/Location/3305986/martin-luther-king-jr-multi-service-ambulatory-care-ctr
- Wikipedia – Martin Luther King Jr. Outpatient Center: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr._Outpatient_Center
- HDR Architecture – Martin Luther King, Jr. Outpatient Center Project: https://www.hdrinc.com/portfolio/martin-luther-king-jr-outpatient-center
Last Updated: December 2025
