03/25/2026
Hanna Haptu’s journey is rooted in resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to community care. From arriving in the United States as a young refugee to becoming a physician and now Interim Chief Medical Officer at Lynn Community Health Center, her story reflects what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.
Over the years, she has helped lead important initiatives, including expanding services and strengthening programs that support patients across the community. Following her Infectious Disease (ID) fellowship at Boston Medical Center, Dr. Haptu joined LCHC and developed an ID clinic to provide care for patients living with HIV, Hep C, Hep B, and STI. One milestone she’s especially proud of is the health center becoming the only community health center in Massachusetts to be designated as a DPH-funded TB clinic.
During COVID, she worked alongside colleagues at LCHC, reinforcing the strength and compassion of our teams, as healthcare workers continued tirelessly to support patients and families. When a team comes together with a shared purpose, what may appear as insurmountable challenges, can be overcome.
Today, her focus remains on continuing the patient centered work of LCHC and leading by example. She is passionate about improving patient access and ensuring high-quality care across all services, including medical, pediatric, dental, vision, and behavioral health. She is equally committed to supporting staff by strengthening job satisfaction and creating clearer paths for growth and advancement.
We’re always proud to recognize Women’s History Month, and Dr. Haptu’s story is a powerful example that leadership takes many forms. She hopes others, especially young people and those just starting out, see her journey as proof that their goals are within reach.
“Dreams are real, and they’re worth pursuing,” she says. “You can become everything you imagine.”
For this leader, the work is far from over. Every day is another opportunity to serve her community and work alongside colleagues who share that same dedication. Together, they can continue building something meaningful and lasting.
