Wesley Health Center provides safety net to the uninsured
More than three decades ago, Wesley Health Center opened its doors to provide medical service to those without insurance.
Not long after, it became a place for providing health care for all individuals 18 and older.
“Many people were having trouble paying their deductible, the co-pay or the extra fees so we decided as long as we were able, we would open it up to anyone, whether they had health insurance or not,” said Marilyn Weaver, executive director at WHC.
The Connellsville clinic provides primary care and vision services and hosts free flu and vaccination clinics. It is the only free clinic in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Waver said.
Community partnerships allow WHC to provide services like lab work or more advanced testing to patients. For example, staff at WHC can draw blood and send it to an Independence Health System facility for analysis at no additional charge.
The goal, said Weaver, is to proactively address health concerns before they require emergency treatment.
“When you can afford it, you don’t think much about it, but there shouldn’t be a stigma about healthy living or health care,” Weaver said. “This area has a lot of diabetics for example, and with a 5-minute retinal scan, we can arrange for them to receive help at UPMC if needed. Looking in the eye is one of the only ways you can see inside the body without surgery.”
Weaver has talked to patients who would miss blood pressure and other medications if it weren’t for the help WHC provides.
While the clinic does not have medications on site, the doctor on staff can work with patients to find the most affordable options.
Weaver said she often sees patients whose lives have been saved by stopping by with symptoms.
“I hope people realize that the health center is open to anyone,” Weaver said. “I’ve seen patients who thought they were having an asthma attack but were having a heart attack.”
WHC remains open, thanks to generous donors, local businesses, fundraising and grants.
Bud Murphy’s hosted its 31st annual golf outing this summer, donating proceeds to WHC. The Lions Club, Rotary Club, VFW, local churches and businesses continue to donate funds for the free flu shot program each winter.
“We’re thankful for the support. The way people are having trouble making ends meet today, they can still have excellent health care through WHC,” Weaver said.
Visit https://wesleyhealthcenter.org/hours/ for more information.