Healthcare Network is proud to announce the completion of Phase I of renovations at its Marion E. Fether (MEF) Medical Center, the only comprehensive medical care provider in Immokalee and a cornerstone of health for the community for more than 30 years. 

Since opening in 1993 as Healthcare Network’s first comprehensive medical center, MEF has served generations of Immokalee families, farmworkers, children, and seniors. In a community where many residents face barriers such as limited insurance, transportation challenges, and language differences, MEF remains the primary source of accessible, affordable, culturally informed care. Today, more than 10,000 patients rely on MEF annually for essential medical services. 

Beginning Monday, Nov. 24, patients will once again enter through the front doors, where they will be greeted by a newly redesigned lobby featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, an updated and more efficient in-house pharmacy, and enhanced spaces. These improvements mark a major milestone in Healthcare Network’s multi-phase modernization project designed to elevate the patient experience and expand access to care. 

“Marion E. Fether has been a trusted source of care for decades, and as the only comprehensive medical provider in Immokalee, its impact is immeasurable,” said Jamie Ulmer, Healthcare Network president and CEO. “These renovations honor our history, strengthen our foundation for the future, and reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring this community receives the high-quality care it deserves.” 

Phase I: Enhancing the Patient Experience From the Moment They Arrive 

Phase I included essential structural and aesthetic improvements to modernize MEF for the long term. The original roof was replaced, and the exterior expanded with large, impact-resistant windows that fill the building with natural sunlight.  

Inside, new flooring and freshly finished walls complement a fully redesigned lobby that creates a welcoming, comfortable, family-centered environment with dedicated spaces for children. A new centralized patient check-in experience streamlines the arrival process, making it easier and more efficient for families to access care. Additional upgrades include the fully renovated pharmacy and improvements that support a more seamless, patient-centered flow throughout the facility. 

Phase II and Beyond: Strengthening Clinical Services 

With Phase I complete, Phase II is now underway. This next stage includes significant upgrades to the family and specialty care areas. Later phases will include renovations to the x-ray, lab, and dental departments. These enhancements will expand capacity, improve flow, and strengthen the essential services the Immokalee community depends on. The full renovation project is expected to be completed in winter 2026. Throughout construction, the center has remained open, and will continue to remain open, to ensure care is not disrupted for families. 

Community Support Still Needed 

The renovation of this 42,000-square-foot facility represents a major investment in the future of Immokalee’s health. To date, $4.1 million has been raised toward Healthcare Network’s $5 million goal. 

“With continued community support, we can complete this transformation and preserve a vital resource the people of Immokalee rely on every day,” added Ulmer. 

To learn more about Healthcare Network services or to support the renovation project, please visit HealthcareSWFL.org. 

About Healthcare Network 

Since 1977, Healthcare Network has distinguished itself by providing primary health care to men, women and children of all ages, helping the disenfranchised, underinsured, and uninsured of our communities, as well as those with insurance and resources who recognize the quality and comprehensiveness of care available. The organization has grown from two small trailers in Immokalee to a network of providers located throughout Collier County. Primary health care services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, senior care, dental care and pharmacy, and integrated and traditional behavioral health for adults and children. Additionally, the organization’s community health workers bring health and social services directly to underserved families. For more information, visit HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.