Starting a Free Clinic

While the North Carolina Association of Free Clinics can provide resources and advice in starting a free clinic, NCAFC cannot create a free clinic in a community - we cannot 'make' a clinic be there. The ONLY way a free clinic happens in a community is when the community wants to make it happen - a driven, compassionate group of leaders with a desire to help the uninsured.

There are several key factors that must be identified before you consider opening a free clinic:

Needs Assessment: Does the community need a free clinic? Are there other resources in place - Federal or State Health Centers, Health Departments, etc, - that already serve the uninsured?
Community Support: Will the community support the clinic - will they volunteer their time, donate their money, advocate for the clinic, etc.?
A "Champion": Almost all successful free clinics have a clinic "Champion", someone who is passionate about serving the uninsured. Typically, this person is a medical provider - but it doesn't have to be.
Hospital Support: Additionally, successful free clinics have the active support of their local hospital, including serving on the clinic Board, providing in-kind lab work and other services, encouraging medical providers to volunteer, and providing financial support.
A Diverse, Active Board: Successful clinics have Boards that represent a cross-section of the community, and are active Boards - they volunteer, participate and donate - 100%.

There are many other factors critical to the success of a free clinic. The NCAFC can provide guidance and support in your work - the first step is a preliminary telephone call to establish your "readiness".

If interested in learning more, contact Jason Baisden by email or at 336 251-1111.

Starting a Free Clinic

Needs Assessment: Does the community need a free clinic? Are there other resources in place - Federal or State Health Centers, Health Departments, etc, - that already serve the uninsured?

Community Support: Will the community support the clinic - will they volunteer their time, donate their money, advocate for the clinic, etc.?

A "Champion": Almost all successful free clinics have a clinic "Champion", someone who is passionate about serving the uninsured. Typically, this person is a medical provider - but it doesn't have to be.

Hospital Support: Additionally, successful free clinics have the active support of their local hospital, including serving on the clinic Board, providing in-kind lab work and other services, encouraging medical providers to volunteer, and providing financial support.

A Diverse, Active Board: Successful clinics have Boards that represent a cross-section of the community, and are active Boards - they volunteer, participate and donate - 100%.