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West Virginia Health Right clinic—one of the 400+ free clinics in AmeriCares partner network—has been supported by deliveries of both medical and emergency aid.
The Need In 1982, medical practitioners founded West Virginia Health Right to serve the ongoing health care needs of low-income and uninsured patients in the city of Charleston. Roughly 13% of the Charleston’s residents live without health insurance, a number that continues to grow. Over the years, the clinic has expanded its reach to fill this gap, now meeting the primary care needs of nearly 22,000 patients with the help of a vibrant community of 450 volunteers.
To support the clinic’s work, AmeriCares has delivered $1 million in supplies and medications since 2008. Many of the donations have been used to treat hypertension, diabetes, urinary infections, and acid reflux.
The Response
In the end of June 2012, violent storms ripped through the Mid-Atlantic, leaving hundreds of thousands of people suffering in sweltering heat without electrical power. West Virginia Health Right clinic played a critical role in identifying needs and distributing aid in hard-hit communities. As part of our emergency response, AmeriCares sent the clinic 500 doses of tetanus vaccines, 1,200 vials of insulin, two truckloads of bottled water, and crucial relief supplies.
AmeriCares Emergency Response Director, Garrett Ingoglia highlighted the need for vaccines in the aftermath of disaster. “As power was restored and the clean-up effort continued, residents and workers were at risk for puncture wounds that can cause tetanus,” he explained.
Our network of 400+ clinics across the U.S. plays an essential role in identifying needs and distributing aid to communities stricken by disaster. As we continue to expand our network of clinics, we will be better positioned to respond more effectively and coordinate efficiently to help families – no matter where in the country the disaster occurs.
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