BOISE -- Right now many Americans find themselves stuck in regards to medical coverage: either making too much money for Medicaid or not enough to afford health insurance.
The Friendship Clinic in Boise hopes to help those in that uninsured group.
"In several instances we've actually saved lives," registered nurse Marie Blanchard said.
Blanchard is the founder and director of the Friendship Clinic. She opened the free clinic in 2003 but never has it been busier than now. Blanchard and her team of volunteer nurses, doctors, social workers and psychiatrists see one patient after another.
"This is a Godsend to have something like this in the community," patient Teddy Medeiros said.
Medeiros was laid off from a security job and found himself without insurance. He recently found abnormal bumps in his chest, which was something he did not want to ignore. The medical staff at the Friendship Clinic saw him quickly.
"Since I'm unemployed my savings are dwindling, I can't step into an emergency room and just expect to be taken care of," Medeiros said.
The clinic helps American citizens who can not afford health insurance, yet make too much for Medicaid. The AARP says more 221,000 people in Idaho are uninsured: 77 percent of those have full-time jobs, 11 percent work part-time jobs.
"Those are the folks that need the help the most right now, believe me," Blanchard said.
The clinic is only open Monday nights for three hours starting at 5:30 p.m. Often a line has formed before the staff gets there.
"By probably 5:45, 5:30-5:45, we are booked for the evening," volunteer Yvonna Rowett said.
Patients like Medeiros are thankful for the Friendship Clinic.
"I think there should be more of these reaching out to the general public," Medeiros said.
The clinic is funded by donations and state grants.
Because the need for its services keeps growing, Blanchard is considering opening up for a second night. In order to make that happen, more volunteers are needed.
If you are a nurse or doctor and would like to help out, contact the clinic.
Call 429-6678 or e-mail friendshipclinic2003@yahoo.com.
