Free Clinics in North Carolina: A Network of Compassion, Volunteerism, and Quality Care for Those without Healthcare Options

Abstract

Ida and her husband Jim both worked full-time. Ida's job did not provide health insurance, but Jim paid extra so his insurance policy would cover both of them. Jim developed multiple sclerosis, which progressed rapidly causing Jim to lose his job. Despite their limited financial resources, they were able to continue his insurance through COBRA. Unfortunately, they did not have the resources to continue hers. Ida was faced with managing her hypertension without insurance. She turned to Urban Ministries Open Door Clinic (ODC) in Raleigh for treatment and medication. A routine screening mammogram revealed a lump in Ida's breast. Uninsured and frightened, she turned again to the ODC. ODC coordinated care and, within a month, Ida had a mastectomy and had begun a chemotherapy regimen. One year later, Ida is cancer-free and has found a new job with healthcare benefits, leaving the ODC with an opening for another person in need without other healthcare options. Nancy, a young woman in her late 20's, came to ODC because she didn't feel well. Diagnosis: diabetes mellitus. Her hemoglobin A1c was 15, and other clinical measures were similarly high. Nancy entered ODC's specialized diabetes management program, the Diabetes Care and Risk Reduction Program. By meeting regularly with a certified diabetes educator; making significant changes in her eating and exercise habits; and receiving medications, a glucometer, and test strips at no charge, Nancy has brought her hemoglobin A1c to 5.2 and other clinical measures are in line. She is able to move toward her goal of getting pregnant, something that six months ago was not advisable due to her health status.