11:45 am Tri-Cities to host second Remote Area Medical Clinic
BRISTOL — In an effort to meet the needs of thousands of medically underserved patients, Tri-Cities organizers are preparing to host the region’s second Remote Area Medical Clinic.
Tri-Cities RAM will take place this year on April 14 and 15 at the Bristol Motor Speedway. Medical, dental and vision services will be provided at no cost to individuals who are present for care. There are no eligibility requirements for patients, and no health insurance information is required or requested.
“People might be surprised by how many people in this region need the services of RAM because of their financial circumstances,” said Dr. Joseph Smiddy, a pulmonologist with Pulmonary Associates of Kingsport and one of the original organizers of the first Tri-Cities RAM event in October 2010. “I’ve gained a greater appreciation of how fortunate I have been when I see how many people come to RAM because they have no other option for their health care.”
The medical, dental and vision care offered at RAM events is provided by an army of volunteers, both clinical and non-clinical. This year’s clinic is still in need of dentists, as dental care is the most sought-after service at RAM events.
“We are also seeking monetary donations from the community to help cover the expenses involved in operating the clinic,” said Helen Scott, chair of the Tri-Cities RAM committee. “We need financial assistance to purchase medical supplies, provide food for patients and volunteers, and rent essential equipment like tents and chairs.”
The first Tri-Cities RAM provided $537,401 worth of medical services to 1,307 people over the course of three days. This year, organizers expect to serve approximately 2,000 people, seeking primarily dental and vision services. Many services can be provided on the spot, including dental extractions and fillings; mammograms, X-rays and cervical screenings; and the creation of prescription eyewear. If a patient requires a service that can’t be performed during the clinic, volunteers will help the patient connect with regional resources to get the necessary care.
Pharmacists from the Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy at East Tennessee State University will be on hand to answer patients’ questions about their prescription medications and help them find affordable ways to manage their prescriptions throughout the year. ETSU’s audiology department will provide screenings and assistance with hearing aids for those who need them.
“It’s very touching to see all of the volunteer caregivers who are committed to improving the quality of life for their fellow residents of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. This event shows the compassion of our region at its best,” said Smiddy.
For more information on Tri-Cities RAM, visit http://ramusa.org or call Helen Scott at (423) 652-2516. An information line is also available for patients at (423) 573-0695. Donations may be made online at www.crossroadsmedicalmission.org or mailed to Tri-Cities RAM, c/o Crossroads Medical Mission, P.O. Box 16852, Bristol, Va., 24209-6852. Make checks payable to Crossroads Medical Mission and mark them for Tri-Cities RAM.
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