Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

TRINITY HEALTH - Minot, North Dakota
Free Clinic 

What is it?  
In 1999 a pair of Trinity Health employees and a group of parish nurses started a free clinic in Minot, to provide free basic medical care to people without health insurance. The clinic, which provides two weekly walk-in clinics on Mondays and Fridays at First Lutheran Church, is staffed by volunteer doctors, nurses and support personnel. Although the clinic functions as an independent agency, it is heavily supported by Trinity Health, the region’s healthcare provider. Trinity provides free laboratory services, which is a substantial donation. In addition, Trinity’s pharmacies also participate in the Free Clinic’s Pharmacy of the Month program at which patients may fill prescriptions at a significantly discounted rate. The clinic receives close to 2,000 patient visits per year. 

Who is it for?  
The majority of patients are working individuals whose employers do not offer health insurance or who do not have the financial resources to take advantage of their employer’s plans.

Why do they do it? 
People without health insurance have limited options when it comes to access to care. This contact with a primary care provider is essential and provides the basis for connecting with other healthcare services. The overall aim is to treat illness and provide health education. In doing so, the clinic also seeks to promote peace of mind, a sense of hope, and confidence in patient’s ability to lead productive and fulfilling lives. This past year the clinic served patients from 31 communities, most within an 80-mile radius of Minot.

Contact:  Mary Muhlbradt
Community Relations Coordinator
Telephone:  701-857-5116
E-mail:  Mary.Muhlbradt@trinityhealth.org