The clinic serves health-care needs of patients with Medicare and Medicaid coverage. It also sees patients with commercial insurance for a single visit when they are unable to obtain treatment from their primary-care physician.

Although many self-employed residents of the nine-county service area find the cost of medical insurance to be unaffordable, the $15 co-pay charged by Berea Health Ministry is within the budget of many. Participating counties in Kentucky include Madison, Clark, Clay, Estill, Garrard, Jackson, Laurel, Rockcastle and Powell.

In 2004 the clinic served 4,184 patients with a paid staff of four. More than 20 professionals volunteer their services at the clinic. These volunteers include a nurse practitioner, four volunteer physicians, dieticians, social workers, counseling specialists, LPN and RN nurses and physician assistants.

The newly refurbished office, located at 307 Richmond Road North, Suite 20 in Berea, includes over 2,000 square feet of state-of-the-art equipment and facility resources. The referral network includes laboratories, specialists and therapists to offer complete patient health care.

Cora Withrow, founder and president of Berea Health Ministry, began the operation three years ago when a study showed a critical need. Berea Baptist Church joined the effort with prayers, financial support and volunteers. The clinic opened November 24, 2003.

Funding comes from private donations, churches and foundations such as Toyota and Good Samaritan Hospital. Madison County, Berea, and Richmond city governments have also provided support.

Anyone wishing to make a donation or acquire more information can contact Executive Assistant Peggy Hollingsworth at 859 986-0485.

For those wishing to volunteer, contact Barbara Shirley at 859 986-1274. Fax number is 859 986-1279.

(Posted March 15, 2005)