Community Clinics Receive Grant for Point-of-Care Diagnostics

BD, Heart to Heart International and the NAFC Announce 2019 Grantees for Multi-Year Diagnostic Testing Initiative to Improve Patient Outcomes

​Alexandria, VA, Sept. 18, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As part of a continued effort to support and improve evidence-based care in community clinics, BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), a leading global medical technology company, in conjunction with Heart to Heart International (HHI) and the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) today announced product-based grants to six clinics across the U.S. through the Point of Care, Enhancing Clinical Effectiveness (PoCECE) program. 
PoCECE is a multi-year initiative that began in 2017, providing organizations caring for underserved and vulnerable populations in the U.S. with the essential point of care diagnostic testing tools, allowing clinicians to evaluate patients on site and get diagnostic test results before they leave the clinic. The program is resourced by BD, totaling more than $1 million in cash and product donations to date – including $360,000 in cash and $14,000 in product for 2019 – and implemented by HHI in conjunction with the NAFC. 
Each grant consists of a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment-waived point-of-care test system consisting of instruments, reagents and quality control to perform the following tests: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, CO2, Glucose, BUN, Creatinine, Ionized Calcium, Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, Macroscopic Urinalysis, Microalbumin, INR, Hemoglobin A1c, Strep A, HIV, Rapid Hepatitis C, Pregnancy, Flu A & B, RSV.  The grants also include technical support consisting of standard operating procedures, equipment setup and configuration, competency training and documentation. 
“We believe that improved access to health care strengthens not only the health of an individual, but also of a community,” says Kim Carroll, HHI CEO. “Receiving lab results might seem effortless for many Americans, but for those in underserved communities, accessible lab testing is a significant obstacle to effective treatment. Through this program with BD and NAFC, thousands of people in communities across the United States are able to receive timely diagnoses and ultimately improved health care.” 
Jennifer Farrington, senior director of Social Investing at BD and vice president of the BD Foundation said, “The recipients of this year’s grant are actively working to make an impact on their communities – most notably for those patients that may not otherwise have continual access to health care services. Our collaboration with HHI and NAFC has been essential to provide funding and resources to these hard-working clinics and reward their dedication to health care.” 
Nicole Lamoureux, NAFC President and CEO said, “More than 2 million medically underserved people receive health care at the 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics throughout the country, and a large percentage of those patients are dealing with chronic diseases that require laboratory testing for diagnosis and monitoring.  The NAFC is grateful for the continued support of BD and HHI as this program allows grantees that operate with limited resources to enhance their on-site diagnostic capabilities and, in turn, expedite the diagnosis of chronic diseases, monitor treatment protocols and improve health outcomes for their patients.”
 The Free and Charitable Clinics that will receive the 2019 PoCECE grant are:

• Clarkston Community Health Center Inc. (CCHC) – Clarkston, GA
• Center for Healing & Hope – Goshen, IN
• The Health Hut – Ruston, LA
• Community Free Clinic, Inc. – Hagerstown, MD
• Free Clinic of Meridian – Meridian, MS
• St. Mary's Health Wagon – Wise, VA

FREE CLINIC OF MERIDIAN RECEIVES NATIONAL GRANT!!

​For immediate release

The Free Clinic of Meridian is among 25 clinics selected by Direct Relief, BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) and the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (NAFC) to take part in the Continuity in Care Grant Program. The program provides funding for programs which will allow NAFC member organizations to continue or expand their ability to provide much needed health care for the medically underserved in their communities. The Free Clinic of Meridian received a $10,000 grant from the program. "As first year members of NAFC, the Free Clinic of Meridian is honored to have been chosen from among more than 250 applicants for this grant award," said Board President Casey Haarala. The Free Clinic of Meridian provides free medical care for more than 900 uninsured adults who are ineligible for Medicare or Medicaid and earn less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
“Across the United States, our Free and Charitable Clinics and Charitable Pharmacies are dedicated to providing affordable, accessible health care in their communities,” says NAFC President and Chief Executive Officer Nicole Lamoureux. “Direct Relief and BD should be commended for their commitment to provide critical operational support to our members and in turn, our patients. Their dedication shows a clear understanding that philanthropy can truly change and save lives.” These general operating support grants may be used to cover day-to-day activities or ongoing expenses such as salaries, utilities, office supplies, medical supplies, dental supplies, pharmaceutical supplies, technology maintenance, rent, expansion of services, project costs, technology purchases, and professional development.

After reviewing the applications and recognizing the overwhelming need for operational support, Direct Relief increased the initial amount of funding this year from $100,000 to a total of $250,000. "Free and charitable clinics are such a critical component of America’s healthcare safety net,” said Damon Taugher, Director of U.S. Programs for Direct Relief. “Direct Relief is excited to work again with NAFC and BD to recognize the critical day-to-day work these providers are doing for the communities across the country.”

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. The company supports the heroes on the frontlines of healthcare by developing innovative technology, services and solutions that help advance both clinical therapy for patients and clinical process for healthcare providers. BD and its 65,000 employees have a passion and commitment to help enhance the safety and efficiency of clinicians' care delivery process, enable laboratory scientists to accurately detect disease and advance researchers' capabilities to develop the next generation of diagnostics and therapeutics. BD has a presence in virtually every country and partners with organizations around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues. By working in close collaboration with customers, BD can help enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety and expand access to healthcare. In 2017, BD welcomed C. R. Bard and its products into the BD family. For more information on BD, please visit bd.com.

Established in 1948 with a mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies, Direct Relief delivers lifesaving medical resources throughout the world -- without regard to politics, religion, ethnic identities, or ability to pay. With operations spanning more than 70 countries and all 50 states in the U.S., Direct Relief is the only charitable nonprofit to obtain Verified Accredited Wholesale Distributor (VAWD) © accreditation by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. Among other distinctions, Direct Relief earns a perfect score of 100 from independent evaluator Charity Navigator, was listed among the world's most innovative nonprofits by Fast Company, and has received the CECP Directors' Award, the Drucker Prize for Nonprofit Innovation, and the President's Award from Esri for excellence in GIS mapping. For more information, please visit http://www.DirectRelief.org.

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality health care and strives to be a national voice promoting quality health care for all. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a Four Star Ranking with Charity Navigator. For more information about the NAFC, please visit www.nafcclinics.org. Follow the NAFC on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NAFClinics and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NAFCClinics.

For Immediate Release
 
Free Clinic of Meridian AWARDED $20K TO HELP PROVIDE MEDICAL CARE FOR THE UNINSURED AS PART OF“50 STATES FOR GOOD” COMMUNITY GIVING PROGRAM
The Free Clinic of Meridian represents Mississippi as one of 52 Winners to Share More than $1,000,000 from Tom’s of Maine
Meridian, MS, December 3, 2015 – The Free Clinic of Meridian has been selected as one of 52 winners from across the country in the seventh annual Tom’s of Maine “50 States for Good” community giving program.  The organization will receive $20,000 to fund important community projects and services that will provide free medical care for uninsured adults in our area.
 
The Free Clinic of Meridian, located at 4707 Poplar Springs Drive, offers primary medical care for uninsured adults.  All care is provided by volunteer physicians and nurse practitioners, who, along with nurses and front office volunteers, have given more than 5000 hours of time in 2015.  The Clinic is open on Mondays from 1-4:00, Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5-8:00, and Wednesdays from 9-1:00.  Patients are seen by appointment only after approval of their applications.
 
Board President Brenda Hiatt says, “We are so excited to have been chosen by Tom’s of Maine for this wonderful donation!  Several of our faithful volunteers took on the challenge of registering with the 50 States for Good community giving program, and one of our front office volunteers, Robin Thompson, was chosen for her support of the Free Clinic of Meridian.  This award is a great example of how anyone can make a difference in the community and how national companies like Tom’s of Maine can help on a local level.  We are so grateful to Robin!”
 
Passionate community members took to their social media pages to share #OneWaytoHelp their communities, amassing nearly 10,000 submissions.  One entrant representing each state and Washington, D.C. was selected to designate a local nonprofit in their area to receive project funding from Tom’s of Maine.
 
“This year’s nonprofit recipients bring to life an inspiring picture of the care that Americans have for each other and their communities,” said Susan Dewhirst, goodness programs manager at Tom's of Maine. “People often think giving back to their community is time intensive, and we wanted to show there are easy ways to make a difference, like raising awareness for a cause you love and supporting brands that strive to make the world a better place for future generations.”
 
Tom’s of Maine has given 10% of profits back to the community since 1970 and encourages employees to use 5% (12 days) of paid time off to volunteer every year. For more information, visit www.tomsofmaine.com.
 
About The Free Clinic of Meridian
The Free Clinic of Meridian has been open for just over one year and provides primary medical care for more than 500 patients.  Applicants must provide a picture ID, Social Security Number, and proof of income, which cannot exceed 200% of the Federal Poverty level for the household.  All applications are verified and appointments are made based on medical need.  For more information about the Clinic’s services or to volunteer, visit us online at freeclinicofmeridian.com, the Free Clinic of Meridian Facebook page, or call 601-286-5551.
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About Tom's of Maine
Tom’s of Maine is a leading natural products company focused on oral and personal care carrying high quality toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, antiperspirant, deodorant, bar soap, lip balm and  baby shampoo and lotion products. Our Stewardship Model guides every decision we make ensuring that our ingredients, processing, and packaging meet our rigorous standards for being natural, sustainable, and responsible.  For over 45 years, Tom’s of Maine has invested in hundreds of nonprofit efforts by giving 10% of its profits back to organizations that support people and the planet and by encouraging employees to use 5% (12 days) of paid time to volunteer.  Tom’s of Maine employees regularly contribute suggestions for improving the company's high sustainability standards. And their ideas, from wind power to ways to improve recycled and recyclable packaging options, are critical to the company's sensitive way of doing business. Most Tom's of Maine products are vegan, kosher and halal certified and gluten-free. All packaging is recyclable through a partnership with upcycling leader TerraCycle or participating municipalities. Tom's of Maine values partnering with its consumers, suppliers and community organizations to support lasting, positive change that is good for people and the planet. To learn more visit us online at http://www.tomsofmaine.com/ or at http://www.facebook.com/TomsofMaine.

 
 
Picture:
Free Clinic Volunteers celebrate being the Mississippi recipient of a $20,000 award from Tom’s of Maine’s “50 States for Good” programs.  Standing from left:  Dr. Lee Valentine, Helen Valentine, Lean Follett, Robin Thompson, Brenda Hiatt, and Dr. Owen Ulmer.  Seated, Donna Page.

A huge thank you to the MCC Medical Assistants students and Alliance Health Center employees who scraped and sanded and scrubbed the outside of the Clinic in preparation for painting as a part of the Day of Caring!  Now, who would like to volunteer to do the painting???

The Free Clinic of Meridian Board of Directors is losing two of our most valuable members as they move on to new life adventures.  The Board honored Dr. Tim Ivey, left, who has served as our Medical Director, and Phil Brooks, right, who has served as Treasurer of the Board, during our Board meeting on Monday, September 14.  We will miss you both.  Your contributions have played a huge role in the success of the Free Clinic during our first year.  We wish you all the best in your new adventures!

The Free Clinic of Merdian earns the 2021 Gold Rating from the NAFC Quality Standards Program!

The Free Clinic of Meridian earned a 2021 Gold Rating from the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) Quality Standards Program.
The mission of the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics is to ensure the medically underserved have access to affordable health care. The NAFC and its members are dedicated to ensuring that patients receive quality health care. To quantify and qualify the care provided at the Free and Charitable Clinic network, the NAFC formalized a set of Quality Standards for member organizations.
NAFC Members voluntarily submit information to the NAFC on the various policies and procedures in place to attain their standards rating and attest/pledge that they successfully incorporate these standards within their organization. NAFC Quality Standards elements include policies and procedures related to the following areas: Administrative, Enhanced Access and Continuity of Care, Identifying and Managing Patient Population information, Planning and Managing Care, Providing Self-Care Support and Community Resources, Tracking and Coordinating Care, and Measuring and Improving Performance.
We are excited to have received this top rating highlighting our commitment to providing quality care for our patients. For more information on the NAFC, please visit www.nafcclinics.org.

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