To create a model for implementing a subspecialty free clinic to care for an underinsured/uninsured population and to create a unique learning environment for trainees to better understand health care disparities.
The Columbus Free Clinic (CFC) is a student-run free clinic that provides medical care and social services to underserved individuals while promoting educational opportunities for volunteers.
Most community free clinics provide primary care services, however, there is limited access to specialized care for patients that are uninsured/underinsured. The Neurology department at The Ohio State University partnered with the CFC in conjunction with the College of Medicine in the Fall of 2021 to provide neurology specific care.
We implemented a bimonthly neurology free clinic which consisted of undergraduate and medical students, neurology residents and attendings, social workers, and pharmacists. We recruited patients via different modalities including referrals from various clinics and a self-refer sign up link.
Each clinic consists of undergraduate and medical students serving as first contact, followed by a neurology resident and the attending who provide supervision and oversight. Laboratory services were provided and an inhouse pharmacy stocked with common neurologic medications including donepezil, levetiracetam, and sumatriptan.
As of October 2021, 8 clinics were completed by 25 residents and 21 medical students, providing neurological care for 42 patients. Of those patients, 14 presented with headaches, 6 with memory loss, 6 with seizures, 9 with neuropathy, 3 with tremors, 1 with stroke, and 3 with dizziness.
Qualitative feedback from trainees showed a positive impact with the free clinic on their knowledge in health care disparities.
The implementation of neurological clinical care to uninsured/underinsured patients can be achieved through collaborative work between students, residents, and ancillary services. This model of care can be replicated by other specialties and institutions to provide free care for patients in need of such services.