Detailed Introduction
The Mildred Bayer Clinic for the Homeless is a dedicated healthcare facility located in Toledo, Ohio, specifically serving the city's homeless and underserved populations. Founded in 1984 through the vision of Mildred Bayer and Dr. Raymond Borer, it initially operated as a free medical clinic twice a week at a local homeless shelter. In 2000, to expand its reach and impact, the clinic merged with the Neighborhood Health Association (NHA), a prominent community health center in Toledo committed to providing accessible healthcare to all, regardless of their ability to pay.
In 2016, the Mildred Bayer Clinic relocated to a state-of-the-art facility within NHA's Nexus Health Care center at 1415 Jefferson Avenue. This move significantly expanded its capacity and the range of services offered. The clinic provides comprehensive primary care, including adult primary care, HIV testing and counseling, flu shots, blood sugar and blood pressure checks, pregnancy tests, and physicals. Beyond general medical services, it also offers crucial dental and vision care, including diagnosis and providing glasses.
A key aspect of the Mildred Bayer Clinic's mission is to address the holistic needs of its patients. In addition to medical treatment, it provides essential support services such as personal hygiene kits, a change of clothes, private restrooms, and shower facilities, which are vital for the dignity and well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness. The clinic also has patient navigators on staff to assist with paperwork, determine eligibility for services, and provide referrals for additional treatment or transportation.
The clinic operates on a model that ensures no one is turned away due to inability to pay. It accepts most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, and offers health care assistance on a sliding fee scale for the underinsured or uninsured. Patients below 200% of the poverty level are eligible for medication vouchers for prescriptions issued by the clinic. The Mildred Bayer Clinic for the Homeless exemplifies NHA's broader mission of eliminating healthcare inequities and empowering patients to take control of their health, serving as a vital resource for a vulnerable community in Toledo.
