The Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center opened its doors September 27 with a rededication reception to celebrate the center’s recent renovations. A product of the Cook County Health and Hospitals System and the Rush University Medical Center, the center has served those of all ages as a clinic for the prevention, care, and research of HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases for the past 14 years. The CORE Center offers patients all of the services that they may need in one location, including primary and specialty medical care, dental care, social and support services, prevention and education programs, and opportunities to participate in research.

The 150 invited attendees filled the building’s main lobby for the reception. Invitees included elected officials, past and present donors, provider staff, and community partners. CORE Center staff members from various departments were also available to greet guests and to conduct tours of the facility.

While most of the renovations repurposed, rearranged, and reconfigured the center’s space more efficiently, the dental clinic is a completely new feature. Since the nature of HIV/AIDS treatment has changed, there is a new focus on testing and linking individuals to treatment. Therefore, the renovation of the clinical areas was crucial, as more and more people will be coming in for services.