Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center: A Big Step for Health Equity in Southeast DC

At Martha’s Table, we’ve always believed in the strength and leadership of the community. For too long, families in Ward 8 and Southeast DC have faced barriers to health care, like the lack of local hospitals, limited access to fresh food, and not enough preventive health services. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center to SE DC. This is a key step toward improving the health and well-being of our neighbors, and it’s an investment that’s long overdue and truly worth celebrating!

The opening of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center marks more than the arrival of a new hospital. It’s a step toward fixing decades of economic, environmental, and structural inequalities that have contributed to poorer health outcomes for Ward 8 residents. In Ward 8, the average life expectancy is just 71 years, 16 years lower than in Ward 3, a wealthier part of DC. 

These disparities aren’t just numbers—they show up in people’s lives every day:

• Residents of Ward 8 are four times more likely to have diabetes than people in other wards.
• Ward 8 has the highest obesity rates in the city.
• Of the 49 full-service grocery stores in DC, only one is in Ward 8, serving over 73,000 residents.
• Mental health services are hard to find, even though anxiety and depression rates are higher in the community.

The new hospital brings critical care close to home. Expecting mothers will have access to prenatal care and the ability to deliver their babies right in their community. Chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can be managed locally, reducing ER visits and increasing access to preventive care. Cedar Hill means families don’t have to travel across the city to receive the care they deserve.

“The opening of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center is a win for our community. It’s not just about healthcare—it’s about dignity, access, and the right to thrive. We know communities thrive when we invest in quality healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, and Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center represents the kind of investment Ward 8 families have long deserved.”

— Tiffany Williams, President and CEO

A Holistic Approach to Community Well-Being

The opening of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center marks a meaningful step forward for our community, but building a healthier Ward 8 is an ongoing effort that involves all of us. At Martha’s Table, we recognize that health is shaped not just in hospitals, but in the daily experiences that help families feel safe, supported, and hopeful. In partnership with Cedar Hill and the broader health community, we’re proud to be part of a shared commitment to long-term well-being.

Access to fresh, nutritious food, quality early childhood education, emotional wellness, and strong community connections all contribute to the foundation of strong, stable lives. From parenting support and creative expression to expanded educational and economic opportunities, these efforts are creating more pathways forward.

Together, we’re working toward a future where every resident of Ward 8 has the opportunity to thrive, today and for generations to come.

Get Involved and Make a Difference

Join the many volunteers who have contributed over 29,000 hours of service to our community. Your involvement can make a lasting impact on the lives of our neighbors. 

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