About this Unit
Naval Health Clinic New England traces its origins to the establishment of naval medical facilities in Newport, Rhode Island, during the late 19th century, supporting the growing needs of the U.S. Navy in the region. The clinic, as it exists today, was officially commissioned in 1998, consolidating several Navy medical departments across New England into a unified healthcare system. Throughout its history, the clinic has provided comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health services to active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families. Naval Health Clinic New England continues to play a vital role in maintaining the operational readiness of the Navy by delivering high-quality healthcare and supporting fleet and shore-based commands throughout the region.
Historical Facts
• Historic Roots: Naval Health Clinic New England (NHCNE) traces its origins to the Naval Hospital Newport, which was established in 1913 to support the growing naval presence in Rhode Island.
• WWI Service: During World War I, the hospital provided care to wounded and sick sailors and marines, playing a critical role in supporting the war effort from the home front.
• WWII Expansion: The hospital expanded dramatically during World War II, at one point accommodating over 1,500 patients and supporting multiple military installations throughout the region.
• Modern Consolidation: In 1998, several regional naval medical facilities were merged to form Naval Health Care New England, later renamed Naval Health Clinic New England, streamlining healthcare services for the Navy in the Northeast.
• Multi-State Presence: NHCNE serves personnel and families not only in Rhode Island but also in Connecticut and southern Massachusetts, with branch clinics at Naval Submarine Base New London (Groton) and Naval Station Newport.
• Submarine Community Support: The clinic is especially important to the U.S. Navy’s submarine community, supporting the health and readiness of sailors assigned to the Atlantic submarine fleet.
• Disaster Response: NHCNE personnel have participated in humanitarian and disaster relief missions, providing medical support during hurricanes and other emergencies in the region.
• Research and Training: The clinic has supported medical research and training for both military and civilian medical professionals, enhancing healthcare capabilities across the military.
• Women in Service: The clinic has a long history of employing and supporting women in military medicine, with many female medical officers and staff serving throughout its history.
• Community Engagement: NHCNE regularly partners with local communities for health fairs, vaccination drives, and public health campaigns, strengthening ties between the military and civilians in New England.
