Detailed Introduction
The Free Clinic of Powhatan (FCP) is a vital 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2008 with the mission to provide high-quality health care and wellness services at no cost to the uninsured and low-income adult residents (ages 19-64, with exceptions for dental patients 65+) of Powhatan, Chesterfield, Amelia, and Cumberland Counties in Virginia. The clinic's vision is to ensure that no low-income resident in these communities suffers due to the unavailability or unaffordability of medical care.
FCP offers a broad spectrum of services designed to address the comprehensive health needs of its patients. These include:
Medical Care: Providing primary care for both acute conditions (e.g., colds, rashes) and chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, COPD), preventative care (e.g., wellness check-ups, immunizations), and specialty referrals.
Dental Care: Offering oral health services such as cleanings, hygiene, x-rays, and restorative treatments including fillings, extractions, partials, and dentures, along with specialty referrals.
Behavioral Health: Delivering counseling by licensed professional counselors for various mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. They offer individual, family, and group therapy, available in-person and via telehealth. A psychiatrist is also available for treatment and medication management. Notably, they also have a counseling program with Powhatan High School, providing a psychiatrist and counselor at the school.
Women's Health: Integrating gynecology with primary care, this program provides pelvic and breast exams, PAP smears, and health education, with referrals for mammograms and bone density testing.
Rx Assistance & Counseling: In collaboration with Powhatan Walmart Pharmacy, CrossOver Healthcare Ministry, and pharmaceutical companies, the clinic provides prescribed medications at no cost.
Nutrition Counseling: Available for disease-specific needs (diabetes, hypertension) as well as for weight loss and heart-healthy dietary plans.
Patient Education: A foundational part of their treatment plan, ensuring patients understand their medications and how lifestyle impacts their health.
The Free Clinic of Powhatan operates primarily through the dedication of volunteers and the support of donors and partners. In 2022, volunteers contributed over 8,000 hours, resulting in significant cost savings. The clinic has shown substantial growth, with patient visits increasing by 304% from 2021 to 2022, largely due to the expansion of dental services. They also partner with programs like Access Now by the Richmond Academy of Medicine to connect patients with specialty physician services. The County of Powhatan supports the clinic by covering utilities, cleaning, exterior maintenance, and rent, demonstrating a strong community partnership.
