By Joe Babb
The medically uninsured now represent 25 percent of the population in Bexar County, or about 380,000 individuals. This number is expected to increase to more than 450,000 by 2016.
To compound this problem, a recent study by The Commonwealth Fund ranked Texas last among the fifty states in providing access to care. Historically, the healthcare needs of the uninsured have been taken care of through the generosity of physicians.
However, as reimbursement from Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP and commercial insurance declines in relation to the cost to provide care, the ability for physicians to take on pro bono cases becomes more and more difficult.
One avenue now available for the primary health care needs of the uninsured is through the Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM). MHM was formed in 1995 as a result of the partnership between Methodist Hospital and Columbia (now HCA), and is one-half owner of the Methodist Healthcare System.
MHM was created to address the basic needs of the entire person: body, mind and spirit. MHM fulfills its mission through the operation of a variety of programs to improve the lives of the least served throughout South Texas, and by providing funds for non-profit organizations with a similar mission.
In Bexar County, the MHM's programs are primarily medical, dental, social services, counseling, health education, parenting and Wesley Nurse (nurses providing services within the church setting).
Medical and dental services are provided solely to low-income uninsured individuals. Patients with Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP or private insurance are referred to other providers. Medical and dental services are provided on a sliding fee scale basis with the average medical visit costing about $12. This includes the office visit with a Board Certified Family Medicine physician, lab work, routine radiology procedures and medications. Dental services include cleaning, fillings, extractions, crowns, bridges and dentures. No patient is turned away due to inability to pay.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries recognizes the needs of many individuals are often much greater than just physical care, so social services, counseling and health education are located in conjunction with the medical clinics and are provided at no cost. Individuals do not have to be medical or dental patients to receive support services.
MHM greatly appreciates all of the physicians who have so generously donated their time and talents over the past few years to assist us with the specialty needs of our patients.
MHM does not replace the hospital district's responsibility, but assists those who, for a variety of reasons, may not qualify for public assistance.
If you are aware of a low-income uninsured individual in need of a primary care home, please have them contact one of our clinics.
Contact:
Wesley Primary Care Clinic (near I-35 and Southcross) 527-1505
Bishop Dixon Clinic
(E. Houston near N. New Braunfels)
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