Phil Petersen introduced Jennie Schmidt, Executive Director of the Free Medical and Dental Clinic. and Lisa, the new Development Director. Jennie stated that the theme is growth. Their mission is to provide quality health care for the uninsured and underinsured. The clinic is used by many--98% of their patients are uninsured/underinsured, 83% from Johnson County, and 61% are employed. Many of their patients have complex needs. The Free Medical Clinic helps with the Health Kids program at ICCSD. They run clinics and a laboratory. They can help provide insulin to people. Their service providers include over 200 volunteers.
Their biggest challenge is growing demand as they serve thousands of patients and are booking medical appointments into May. Challenges also include that
- there are an increasing number of women seeking access to contraception, especially following changes to state and federal laws,
- Iowa allows dentists to take Medicaid but many do not,
- they offer prenatal and postnatal care,
- Mercy has provided mammogram services and they are waiting to see what happens with Mercy's changes,
- they want to got to electronic records to replace paper,
- they are funding a growing budget,
- space to provide services and
- funding
The Free Medical Clinic had a grant to hire a dentist as of October 1, 2023--the dental waiting list was 1 year in fiscal year 2023. Their dental team includes three Spanish speakers. Kirkwood dental hygiene students are helping in the dental clinic. They have new groups funded by grants, including Wednesdays for Women group and Diabetic Education and Support groups (which they can offer in Spanish). The Free Medical and Dental Clinic is also working with OPN Architects to improve their space.
Lisa stated that keeping patients out of emergency care saves money and "we can be proud" that we are one of the oldest medical clinics. They are hoping to get more people on board and she asks that you please like The Free Medical Clinic on Facebook. They have an unticketed event May 1 at the Kirkwood Room.
They appreciate Rotary helping to fund the moving of the electrical meters to outside at a cost of about $25,000. Brianna Hoffman was instrumental along with other Rotary clubs.
Service Above Self
Iowa City, IA 52240
United States of America