Local health clinic helps uninsured

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The tough economy has cost many people their jobs and for some, their health insurance. Locally, the Tippecanoe Community Health Clinic has been a resource for the uninsured for two decades. But the downturn in the economy has created an increase in patients for the facility.

In 2008, nearly 9,000 Tippecanoe County residents used the clinic and even more are expected this year. Kristen Haase's daughter, Jamison, was born premature nearly a year and half ago. She said the clinic has helped every step of the way.

"They do a good job with her healthcare and it's a good place to bring your kids," Haase said.

Not only has the clinic seen an increase in patients, but it has also seen an increase in the use of it's programs like the Medication Assistance Program or MAP.

Community Relations Coordinator Stephanie Bossung said the MAP program helps low-income patients get free medications. Last year, the clinic processed more than $2 million worth of free medications--a record for the clinic. She said most of the patients using MAP are dealing with chronic illnesses.

"These medications are very expensive and a lot of times they have nowhere to turn to. So we have two full-time clerks dedicated to filling out the very cumbersome paperwork to ask those drug companies for those medications for free," Bossung said.

Nurse practitioner Meghan Ashland said anyone could apply for prescription assistance through drug companies. But she said like many forms used in our health care system, it is a complicated process and requires the use of a computer. Clinic staff can help patients get through the paperwork.

"When we tell them they can actually get some of their medication for 3 dollars for a whole year, they are extremely surprised," Ashland said.

Tippecanoe Community Health Clinic staff members said they expect next year to be an even busier year, given the dismal economic outlook.