Students from the Worcester Free Clinic Coalition are asking for
help in supporting the free medical programs in Worcester. These
programs have been providing medical care to those without
insurance or with inadequate insurance for over 20 years. In order
to run, the clinics need a licensed physician present at all
times.
There is a clinic each weeknight (Monday- Thursday) from 6:00
p.m.-8:00 p.m. Physicians can volunteer as often or as infrequently as
they would like - many of the current volunteers choose to
volunteer monthly or quarterly. Experienced students will be
available at each clinic during each shift to guide new volunteers
through the logistics and help answer any questions they may
have.
The most common question that arises from physician volunteers
involves malpractice and liability insurance. For practicing
physicians, their current insurance may extend to work at the
clinics. For members of the UMass Memorial Medical Group, there is
a process for obtaining coverage. If you are a retired physician
and not actively doing paid work, the Massachusetts Medical Society
generously provides coverage for volunteer work. The students are
knowledgeable about the requirements and will be happy to help with
your individual situation.
If you are interested in becoming involved or if you have any
questions or concerns, please email Laurel Banach or Kaleigh Timmins at worcesterfreeclinics@gmail.com.
