Clinic Sees 20% Surge in Demand for Healthcare Services
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 3, 2024
Contact:
Daniel Barlow
PHWC Executive Director
daniel@phwcvt.org
(802) 355-7461
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Free Healthcare Clinic Experiences a 20% Surge in Patients Served in 2023
Nonprofit is now fundraising to provide more patient care in 2024
BARRE, VT – Central Vermont’s only free healthcare clinic announced this week that it saw a 20 percent increase in patients served in 2023, signaling a growing crisis in the community’s access to healthcare.
The People’s Health & Wellness Clinic (PHWC) reported that it was on track to provide healthcare services to more than 575 individuals living in and around Washington County, a nearly 20 percent increase from the 480 patients served in 2022. This includes 226 patients who received care at the clinic for the first time.
“This surge reflects the growing healthcare crisis in Vermont and underscores the pressing challenges faced by individuals and families in our community,” said Daniel Barlow, the clinic’s executive director. “While we remain dedicated to our mission, the reality is that the healthcare landscape is becoming more challenging, and we need the support of the community now more than ever."
For nearly 30 years, PHWC has provided free primary care and dental hygiene services to the uninsured and underinsured residents of Central Vermont using a roster of volunteer doctors and nurses accompanied by a small staff of trained medical professionals. All of the services provided at the organization’s clinic in downtown Barre City are 100% free to the patients.
In response to this surge in new patients, PHWC is urgently seeking $100,000 in donations over the next 30 days. The $100,000 fundraising goal will enable PHWC to expand its capacity and ensure that essential medical supplies and medications are readily available for those in need. The funds will also be used to enhance outreach efforts, connecting with more individuals who may not be aware of the clinic's services.
"We believe that healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and with the community's support, we can continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who depend on us," added Barlow.
PHWC encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to this urgent fundraising campaign. Donations can be made securely online at www.PHWCVT.org or by sending a check, made payable to PHWC, at PO Box 544, Barre, VT, 05641.
Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference and help PHWC meet the increased demand for free healthcare services in the community. For more information about People's Health and Wellness Clinic, please visit our website or contact our clinic at (802) 479-1229.
About People's Health and Wellness Clinic:
People’s Health & Wellness Clinic’s mission is to provide primary health care, dental hygiene, and wellness education to the uninsured and underinsured community members of Central Vermont who cannot otherwise afford these services. Founded in 1994, the Clinic is located 51 Church Street in downtown Barre City.
