MEDiC program celebrates 20 years of service

For the homeless, uninsured and unemployed, proper health care is difficult to find, and co-pays, transport, and communication issues present significant barriers to healthcare access. Still, the need for healthcare is high for low-income families and individuals.

In February of 1991, Dr. Ted Goodfriend, a faculty physician at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine joined with students in taking a step toward addressing these issues by establishing a free clinic for homeless men at Porchlight Men’s Shelter at Grace Episcopal Church.

The success of the program inspired the creation of six other Medical Information Centers (MEDiCs) throughout Madison.

MEDiC free clinics are staffed by volunteers from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Students get an opportunity to apply their skills outside the classroom as they provide care for patients. They work with physicians and community partners to bring the Wisconsin Idea to life, sharing resources, knowledge and skills with the people of Wisconsin.

The program also includes students from the UW-Madison School of Pharmacy, School of Nursing, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Physician Assistant Program, and Nurse Practitioner Program.

Each month, MEDiC offers a total of 22 clinic sessions for the city’s underserved. In 2010, MEDiC clinics saw a total of 1,837 patients, providing treatment, prevention and referrals.

MEDiC free clinics include health care centers for homeless men, women and children, and specialty clinics for preventative care, dental treatments, mental health, physical therapy, and women transitioning out of incarceration.

On Oct. 28, a private celebration for MEDiC volunteers and sponsors will take place at Memorial Union South to celebrate the 20^th year of the program.

“MEDiC serves as a wonderful example of the benefits of service learning,” said UW Interim Chancellor David Ward in a congratulatory letter to the program.