Offering affordable healthcare for the underserved
ROCKWALL, TX (May 13, 2014) Texas is reported to have the highest rate of uninsured people in the country, as well as the largest number of children without health insurance. Many of the uninsured or underserved in our community may not be aware of the affordable services available to them, through the Health Center of Helping Hands.
“When you ask people what we do, most are quick to mention our food pantry and thrift store. They understand that Helping Hands provides critical assistance to families in financial crisis,” said Executive Director Margo Nielsen. “For over 30 years, we’ve been helping hungry people inRockwallCountyput food on their table. Our Assistance and Referral Program helps residents in need with electric, water and gas bills; as well as rent and mortgage payments.”
But in addition to the social services rendered from the Helping Hands facility at950 Williams St., the agency also provides a medical home to the underserved. The Health Center of Helping Hands, located in the Reeves Service Center at 102 S.First St., has been offering preventative, chronic and acute low-cost healthcare to the uninsured or underinsured since 2000. Recently, Helping Hands announced plans for future expansion of the Health Center.
“The clinic will take over the entire 1st floor of the Reeves Service Center, effectively doubling in size,” said Melody Hail, Director of Development.
Hail reported that last year alone the Health Center conducted nearly 10,000 office visits, administered more than 1,600 vaccines and provided pediatric care to more than 1,300 local children.
The clinic is open 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays (walk-ins welcome; appointments preferred), and Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon by appointment only.
“There are no income or resident requirements for patients to receive care at the Health Center. Fees for services are significantly lower than those charged by private practices, urgent care clinics or emergency rooms,” said Vanhdy Miller, Practice Manager. “Since there are currently few physicians in the county that are taking new Medicaid clients, theHealthCenterhas become a preferred provider forRockwallCountyresidents with THSteps, Amerigroup, and Parkland Medicaid programs. We also accept Medicare.”
The medical staff comprises volunteer physicians, family nurse practitioners, a physicians’ assistant, several certified medical aides and clinical support staff.
“Our physicians are ob-gyns, endocrinologists, internal medicine specialists and family practitioners who generously donate their time and expertise to help those who need it most,” Miller said.
Patients have access to comprehensive screening and diagnostic procedures, low cost labs, women’s wellness exams, nutritional counseling, prescription assistance, flu shots, vaccinations, annual sports physicals and check-ups.
“Since individuals who cannot access affordable healthcare have higher rates of high blood pressure, heart and lung diseases, diabetes and asthma, chronic disease management is a specialty of the Health Center. Nurse practitioners spend time educating patients about their conditions and the best ways to take care of themselves,” Miller said.
Nielsen added that access to these affordable services results in improved public health and quality of life throughout the Rockwall County region. “The Health Center also helps relieve the burden on local emergency rooms. We have deep referral relationships with our local hospitals,” she said.
An income-based Sliding Scale program is available to temporarily assist Rockwall County residents with medical fees during times of hardship. Patients living at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for this program. Applications are accepted between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at theHealthCenter. Required documents include identification for every family member (valid driver’s license, original birth certificate, social security card with picture ID, valid military ID or passport); proof of residency of Rockwall County (utility bill, mortgage or lease agreement); and proof of household income.
One of the most popular features of the Health Center is its affordable Health Maintenance Plan, which is not exclusive to Rockwall County residents.
“The Plan is aimed at small business owners who can’t afford the cost of offering insurance to their employees, self-employed individuals who may not otherwise quality for competitive group rates, as well as younger, healthy individuals who may only need regular checkups and preventative care,” said Miller.
The Plan includes four office visits, one seasonal flu shot, four labs, an annual health exam and a health card – a $700 value for only $300/year. Eye exams and dental exams can be arranged with partner providers.
For more information, call 972-772-8194, visit rockwallhelpinghands.com or find them on Facebook. The Health Center staff also encourages visitors to come by personally to learn more about their services.
By Dawn Redig, Blue Ribbon News. All rights reserved.
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