Health Talk: New name, same commitment to a healthy community

The Rutland Free Clinic recently changed its name to Rutland County Health Partners and relocated their office from State Street in Rutland to 204 North Main St.

Established in 1996, Rutland County Health Partners (Free Clinic) provides medical care to adults living in Rutland County who have no ability to pay for the health care they need. You must live in Rutland County and be at least 18 years old to get services from the Free Clinic. If you are a veteran, you can live anywhere and still get services from us.

If you live in Vermont and do not have health insurance, you can come to the Free Clinic to get assistance. You can meet with someone who has a special certification to help you apply for state insurance. Some people have insurance but cannot afford to pay a co-pay or deductible. The Free Clinic can help.

Some people have Medicare Part A&B but do not have Part D. The Free Clinic can help with short-term medication assistance, dental extractions and immunizations that are not covered by their Medicare insurance.

Here are some services the Free Clinic provides:

— Health check-ups.

— Treatment for minor illness or injuries.

— Women's health care.

— Vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19, tetanus, hepatitis.

— Temporary medication assistance to manage a chronic disease like diabetes, asthma, COPD or high blood pressure.

— Smoking and vaping quit help.

— Dental infections.

— Dental extraction referrals.

Any care you receive at the Free Clinic is always free. If you are referred for care at another doctor or health center, it may not be free, but the Free Clinic will offer you help to fill out applications for free or reduced cost services.

There is no reason for you to wait to see a doctor or other medical provider. Please do not put off your health. A small issue can easily become a big one if you choose to wait.

Call Rutland County Health Partners (Free Clinic) at 802-774-1082 for more information.

This week's Health Talk was written by Tia Poalino, executive director, Rutland County Health Partners.