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After years of research and planning, the Etowah Free Community Clinic officially opened its doors on January 17, 2005.  Finally, uninsured patients of Etowah County had access to physician’s, nurses, support staff, prescription medication and a variety of holistic care services, at no cost.

In only six months, the establishment of the EFCC has had a dramatic impact, not just in the lives of those we serve, but also in the community, in which they live, work and play.  Seven local physicians volunteer their time to treat patients at the clinic, and make necessary referrals to participating specialists who treat patients in their offices. 

During our initial six-month pilot period, the EFCC provided healthcare services for 220 patients. Patients were treated for diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, high cholesterol and other chronic conditions which, when left untreated, can lead to life-threatening complications and lengthy stays in the hospital. 

Acute conditions were also treated, often requiring nothing more than a simple antibiotic.  Without the EFCC, patients would either present to the emergency room with no means of payment, or they would go without treatment. 

323 laboratory tests were administered.  Lab values were vital in the diagnosing and managing of disease.  Patients were given sample medications at the time of their appointment, and PRN (Prescription Resource Network) provided 430 long-term prescription medications for 93 patients valued at approximately $202,000. All services and medications were provided at no cost to the patient.