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Stamford, Conn. – Aug. 1, 2023 – Registered nurse Karitza Melendez has been named clinic director of the Fred Weisman Americares Free Clinic of Bridgeport. In her new role, Melendez oversees the day-to-day operations of the clinic, which serves an average of 400 low-income, uninsured residents of the greater Bridgeport area each year.
“We are so proud to welcome Karitza to this position,” said Americares Free Clinics Executive Director Karen Gottlieb. “Karitza is a skilled and knowledgeable health care professional and brings her heart to work with her each day.”
Melendez, a Shelton resident, previously served as the Bridgeport clinic’s assistant director. Before joining Americares Free Clinics, Melendez was the lead patient experience associate and emergency department registered nurse at Bridgeport Hospital.
Melendez earned an associate degree in nursing from Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, and she is a licensed registered nurse. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of Bridgeport.
“It is an honor to serve our patients and lead our team as we continue to build a medical home where patients feel respected and valued and receive quality health care. As clinic director, I will continue to work towards bridging the gap to ensure our community receives the care it deserves and has the right to receive,” said Melendez.
Americares operates the largest free clinic network in Connecticut, serving an average of nearly 2,000 low-income, uninsured Fairfield County residents annually at clinics in Bridgeport, Danbury, Norwalk and Stamford. Patients receive comprehensive health services including exams, medications, laboratory testing, diagnostic services and vaccines free of charge.