Medications

Medications are one of the primary ways that we help people at the clinic. Access to medications is crucial to managing chronic health conditions. Without these medications, individuals are more likely to end up in the emergency room or the hospital.

When we first opened the clinic, the medications available for us were sample medications that were donated by other clinics and physicians’ offices. In the months prior to opening, the women of the church spent hours sorting those samples, writing the expiration date on the boxes and organizing the samples. We had a tiny little closet that was used to store the medications.

Today, we have a budget of $15,000 for medications. We are able to purchase generic medications through our membership with the Free Clinics of the Great Lakes Region. We have worked with the providers to develop a formulary. We still have some samples, but there are fewer and fewer of those available today. Having a consistent formulary has made a world of difference for us. At times in the early days, we had to change medications just because the sample drug we were using was no longer available. Now, we only have to change medications if it isn’t working for a particular patient.

We also access many medications through the Prescription Assistance Programs. These are brand name medications that are free of charge – a specific medication for a specific person. Many of the drug companies participate in these programs, but they can be difficult to navigate. One of the clinic employees does this paperwork as part of her job. Connie is our Patient Care Coordinator, and she does anything and everything associated with the patients’ care needs outside of the clinic.

One of the many blessings I have received on this journey was a couple, both pharmacists, with hearts as big as the world. Keith came first, to help me organize. He told me over and over again – I will do this, but no more. This is all I can do – help you get organized and started. Ten years later, he and his wife Marilyn are still here. Clearly, I have not been able to get organized!!

Keith likes to tell people that I am Romanian, as in that culture when someone shakes their head it means yes, where in our culture it means no. I never understood him to say no.

Keith and Marilyn have been vital to the clinic. Their knowledge, their experience, and their love have made the difference. Because of them, our patients receive great healthcare. One of my favorite spots during clinic hours is in the “dispensary” – the area where the pharmacists are filling prescriptions. I love hearing the conversation between the pharmacists and the providers – trying to determine how to best provide care to a patient, using the resources available at the clinic.

Our resources are limited – no controlled substances; no high priced new medications; no latest and greatest – but we provide the best care that we can for the people who come through our doors.