Our Journey
Our Mission
To provide quality and accessible healthcare to under-served communities and to provide a patient centered model of care to empower communities towards wellness.
Our Vision
Comprehensive Care for all.
Founder
In the heart of South Los Angeles, Dr. Edgar Chavez stands as a beacon of compassion and excellence in family medicine at Universal Community Health Center (UCHC). As the founder and CEO of UCHC, Dr. Chavez has dedicated over two decades to addressing healthcare disparities in underserved communities.
2007 – A Humble Beginning
Dr. Edgar Chavez founded UCHC in a small strip mall in South Los Angeles, determined to bring quality healthcare to the underserved community where he grew up.
2009 – Becoming an FQHC

UCHC achieved Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) status, expanding its ability to serve uninsured and underinsured patients with comprehensive healthcare services.
2015 – Growth and Technology Integration

UCHC opens its second location, the San Pedro Site, without external grants, proving its financial strength and community support. UCHC also adopted eClinicalWorks (eCW), a digital health record system to enhance patient care.
2018 – Mental Health Becomes a Priority
UCHC integrated Behavioral Health Services, ensuring that patients received comprehensive care that addressed both physical and mental health needs.
2019 – Continued Expansion
UCHC opened its third location, the Central Site, again without outside funding, marking another milestone in its steady growth.
2020 – Responding to the COVID-19 Crisis
As the world faced the COVID-19 pandemic, UCHC stepped up as a critical testing and vaccination site and also introduced telehealth services, ensuring the community had access to life-saving resources.
2020 - Mobile Healthcare
UCHC partnered with Quincy Jones Elementary to provide mobile healthcare for students and families.
2022 – Reaching More Patients

The Almaguer Clinic opened, expanding UCHC’s reach. A second mobile health van was also introduced using COVID-19 relief funds, allowing healthcare services to be delivered directly to the community.
2023 – Adding Dental Care & New Location

UCHC continued to grow with the opening of its fifth location, the MLK Clinic, and the introduction of dental services, further broadening the range of care provided.
2023 – A Landmark Year: Flagship Site Opens

UCHC celebrated the opening of its sixth location—the O’Neill Clinic, its flagship site. Named in honor of Father Jeremiah O’Neill, this clinic became the central hub for UCHC, offering all services under one roof, reinforcing the organization’s mission of accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.
2024 – Addressing Food Insecurity
UCHC launched a Food Pantry to support families struggling with food insecurity, reinforcing its commitment to holistic community wellness.
From a small storefront clinic to a multi-site healthcare provider, UCHC’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and dedication to the well-being of South Los Angeles.