A volunteer health provider examines a patient at a free clinic organized by Remote Area Medical. (Courtesy photo)
A nonprofit provider of pop-up healthcare clinics is searching for medical professionals to volunteer their services at a free, two-day event in April in Fort Smith.
Remote Area Medical (RAM) is partnering with the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine to provide medical, dental and vision care April 5-6 at the Fort Smith Convention Center. Bringing health care to communities in need removes the cost and distance barriers that often prevent people from seeking care, according to a press release.
The poverty rate in Sebastian County where the clinic will be held is nearly 13%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The poverty level is around 19% in neighboring Franklin and Scott counties.
RAM provides free dental cleanings, fillings, extractions and X-rays; women’s health exams and general medical exams. Clinics also offer eye exams, eye health exams, eyeglass prescriptions and glasses made on site.
Since its founding in 1985, RAM, which is headquartered in Tennessee, has served more than 940,000 people during over 1,400 clinics.
In addition to medical professionals and support staff, RAM also needs volunteers to assist with overnight parking and setting up and taking down the event. Interpreters can volunteer to aid patients through the process as well.
All services are free and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. No ID is required. More information is available at www.ramusa.org.
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