Iowa City free clinic dedicated to those in need

By Cecilia Norris

As I have attended health care forums and followed the current debate on health care reform occurring on Capitol Hill, I am thankful our community has the Iowa City Free Medical Clinic.

Our clinic, started 38 years ago, provides care for patients who are uninsured and underinsured. A variety of people are in need of these services - most of them are people working who do not qualify or cannot afford employer-sponsored health care, young adults who no longer qualify under their parents' insurance plan, foreign nationals who are helping take care of grandchildren while their children go to school, and people who have lost their jobs, and thus, their insurance.

Originally started to provide care for patients with acute health problems, the clinic saw the increased need to follow patients with chronic medical conditions. We now see more than 500 patients regularly for chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and asthma. Our new location at 2440 Towncrest Drive has allowed us to better serve these and other patients. A grant from the Iowa City Housing and Community Development Commission, as well as many private donations, allowed us to make a down payment on purchase of our building.

Through our volunteer doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and medical students, we provide exams and treatments for patients who would not otherwise be able to afford care. Last year, we had more than 6,300 visits to our clinic. We received donated lab tests, medications and X-rays from Mercy Hospital, the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, and private doctors' offices.

Our dedicated staff works with patients to obtain their prescription medications through pharmaceutical company patient assistance programs, donations and medications we purchase.

I feel that the best service our staff provides to our patients is listening to them to see what they really need and taking the time to understand their barriers to accessing health care. They provide this attention in a culturally sensitive setting.

We do not charge for visits, asking only for donations. In these hard economic times, our services are in great demand, but we will continue to provide compassionate care to the best of our abilities.

The choices about health care reform are very difficult, as the problem is complex. I do not anticipate the problem of obtaining affordable health care will be solved soon. So, I appreciate the staff and volunteers of the Iowa City Free Medical Clinic for giving of your time and resources to help fill this void.

Dr. Cecilia Norris is Medical Director, Iowa City Free Medical Clinic (319-337-4459)