New clinic for the uninsured opens in Coffee County
As the community healthcare provider for Coffee and Atkinson County, Coffee Regional Medical Center (CRMC ) has a charitable mission that includes accepting patients regardless of their ability to pay. In 2018 alone, CRMC provided $21,321,727 in indigent care for the community.
It has been found that many patients don’t receive any type of preventative health care until they become ill, presenting to the emergency room with complex health issues because they are unable to receive healthcare in an office setting due to being uninsured or underinsured. When chronic illness such as diabetes or high blood pressure is not managed, it most often results in additional, more serious health problems. Many of these health issues can be prevented with the proper care and management.
In an effort to ensure access of quality healthcare for all, CRMC is joining with community partners to close this gap in healthcare. As healthcare providers, CRMC understands the critical nature of providing an access point for this type of care; therefore CRMC is honored to assist in the establishment of the Coffee County Open Arms Clinic, LLC. This facility is located next to the Hope Center in the Oak Park area of Coffee County. Non-emergent healthcare needs will be treated for those who qualify for the program. To qualify, please come to the clinic during operating hours.
The following information will be required in order to establish new patients:
- Age 18 years and older
- Valid form of identification
- Proof of Coffee County or Atkinson County residency
Clinic hours began Thursday, August 22 from 8 am to 12 noon. Clinic will be held each Thursday from 8 am to noon. These hours are subject to change. During operating hours, the clinic can be reached by calling (912) 331-1420. To make an appointment outside of operating hours, please call the switchboard at Coffee Regional (912) 384-1900.
The Coffee County Open Arms Clinic, LLC is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that will be supported by community donors and healthcare providers on a volunteer basis. Dr. Romulo Navarro, retired medical doctor and surgeon, will be the lead physician, dedicating his time and talent to this charity clinic. Although Dr. Navarro is volunteering his time and talent, there will be many expenses for the medical supplies, utilities, and medications needed to keep the clinic up and running. If you are a registered healthcare employee and are interested in volunteering your time, please contact Connie Bowers at Coffee Regional Medical Center. If you are an individual or organization and would like to make a monetary donation to this clinic, donations can be made to “Coffee County Open Arms Clinic, LLC” and checks can be mailed to: CRMC Foundation, PO Box 1287 Douglas, Ga 31534-1287