As the economic downturn deepens, the number of unemployed and uninsured or underinsured patients is increasing. The Pennsylvania Medial Society is responding by exploring how to shore up Pennsylvania’s safety net for the uninsured, and how physicians can help.
In addition to a network of approximately 30 to 40 free clinics, the state’s uninsured can also access a number of treatment and medication resources provided through federal and state funding.
“Free clinics” refers to the approximately 30 health care delivery clinics or networks that operate primarily through donated materials and facilities and volunteer services, including physician volunteers.
Pennsylvania’s federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), which are federally funded, offer care to Medicare and Medical Assistance patients and others regardless of ability to pay. There are more than 200 FQHCs in the state, serving approximately 600,000 uninsured residents.
Information and resources are sparse and vary by region for physicians or others interested in starting up or becoming involved in the various types of clinics in their communities. At the same time, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are discussing possible ways to incorporate free or federally funded clinics into a response to care for the growing number of uninsured.
Recognizing the need to establish a leadership role for physicians in care for the uninsured, the Society’s goal is to explore how the organization can help coordinate best practices, build relationships within the free care community, and provide information and resources to physicians and the public.
Follow the link below to join our Member Opinion Panel and let us know your opinions on issues affecting medicine. The latest survey for the Member Opinion Panel seeks input on how to provide care for the uninsured.