Archived
Free Professional Medical Clinic at SVU Mar. 6-7
A free clinic, conducted by the Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps, will be held on the campus of Southern Virginia University Mar. 6–7, beginning at 6 a.m. both days.
Licensed physicians, dentists, eye doctors and veterinarians will provide a host of medical services for free. All health professionals are volunteers and many of them live and practice in Rockbridge County.
Dental services offered include cleanings, fillings and extractions.
Vision care includes free prescription glasses, with onsite, same-day pickup.
Medical services include general physicals and women’s health.
Veterinary services include spay and neuter procedures for cats only. Cats should not be given food or water beginning at 10 p.m. the night before.
Patients will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. Turnouts are high for similar events in other parts of the country. All patients should come expecting to wait in lines and to sit outside for long periods of time. If turnout is high, there is no guarantee that every patient will be seen, so interested parties should arrive early, preferably before 6 a.m. Volunteers will be on campus to direct parking and give directions to medical services.
The clinic is sponsored by the Southern Virginia University branch of the Buena Vista Lions Club.
“We are very grateful to the local churches and service organizations who have pitched in to help us provide food, shelter and supplies for our the volunteers,” said Barbara van Kuiken, an assistant professor of chemistry at Southern Virginia and one of the clinic’s organizers. “Our students have volunteered service at more than 30 of these clinics in other areas over the last seven years. We hope to provide a lot of help to people who need it here in Rockbridge County.”
Founded in 1985, Remote Area Medical is a publicly supported all-volunteer charitable organization. Volunteer doctors, nurses, pilots, veterinarians and support workers participate in expeditions (at their own expense) in some of the world’s most exciting places. Medical supplies, medicines, facilities and vehicles are donated.