Thursday, October 23, 2008
Tonight the Collin County Adult Clinic" http://www.collincountyadultclinic.org/about%20us.htm will treat and give medications to approximately 80 indigent to low-income patients. For the past few months our numbers have been growing, and with the current economy we expect to see an increase in the use of our services. However, tonight our Doctors, Nurse Practitioner's, PA's, Nurses, and ancillary staff will work diligantly to treat chronic and acute illness, prevent illness by administering free influenza vaccines, and dispensping free medications for those who state they cannot afford $4.00 prescriptions. I reflect on this as I read an article in todays Dallas Morning News dallasnews.com, Thursday October 21, 2008, titled "Skimping on meds in a bad economy". The article discusses why some patients forgo preventative health examinations, and must chose one medication over another. They state an alarming statistic from the Kaiser Family Foundation that 36% of families recently polled said that they or a family member have put off needed care, and increase from 29% just this April 2008! They predict this number will increase over the next year. I worry as this political season draws to a close that people will "wait" for a fix when it comes to healthcare reform. Regardless who wins, Obama or McCain it will take years for their programs to become implemented. In the meantime, I ask to support the volunteers at Faith-Based or Free Clinics. These selfless volunteers really do make a difference. Providers if you know of patients who are having to "do with-out" a medication or treatment, please down-load the attached links to the free clinics I have listed. These organizations will do their best to make sure that your patients don't have to chose between one pill or the other because of cost. We do our best to find a way to provide what is needed.
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8 comments:
I love hearing how you are serving those underserved and making a difference in healthcare. I am afraid the changes healthcare needs may not come soon enough. America has always been very proud but I think it is time to get over our egos and look to how other countries have been treating more people with less resources. Your organization seems to have a good start on improving your community. Hopefully more will come at the federal, state and local level.
Ashley
That is excellent nurse. This was an article just this morning in the Dallas Morning News about people forgoing needed treatment or medications due to the current economic situation. I find a glimmer of hope see others willing to help and locally.
Ok. I am tired, I admit. I meant to say this is excellent news.
Thank you for caring about these patients. I agree that it will take a significant amont of time for reform to happen. I hope that people will link to the Dalss Doctor Cares Site, find a clinic close to their home and volunteer. These people really need the help of professionals who are willing to volunteer in the community. During my preceptorship as an ENP student I have treated many patients such as hypertensive crisis, DKA, and asthma that could be prevented if they had a medical home, and didn't use the ED as a PCP clinic. I appreciate all of you who have been following this blog. Kathi
I went to Minute Clinic today for a flu vaccine. Although not faith-based is a very interesting concept to deliver low-cost primary care. If any of you have had positive experiences with a "minute Clinic" NP design please post. I would like to forward that to our legistalors. More on low cost alternatives later. Have a great night!
I have heard about the "Minute Clinic" and though the idea was great. I have yet to go to one, but I think it could be very beneficial to the public. I don't hear a lot of advertising from the minute clinic, so I think that is an area they need to address.
Just a thought,
Jen W.
This is so true. This problem will continue to grow for now and you are bringing attention to a possible solution until things turn around.
Yes the problem will continue to grow. I read in the Dallas Morning News that food banks and other volunteer services are out or running out of resources. Many volunteer organizations are looking for help as the need continues to grow.
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