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Old Dominion University Reinstates Free Community Care Clinic

Families receiving care during the free community care clinic at Old Dominion University.

News Summary

Old Dominion University in Virginia Beach will once again provide its free community care clinic, offering essential health services for families with children from Kindergarten to 12th grade. Scheduled for July 22nd, the clinic provides free physical exams and other health services without the need for insurance. It will be staffed by ODU nursing students and healthcare professionals, with community partners enhancing the support offered. This initiative aims to address healthcare needs while educating families, particularly those new to the area.

Virginia Beach – Old Dominion University (ODU) is set to reinstate its free community care clinic for the fourth consecutive year, offering essential health services to students from Kindergarten through 12th grade. The clinic aims to provide free school and sports physicals, allowing families in need to access healthcare resources without the burden of cost, insurance, or identification.

The event will be held on July 22nd at ODU’s Virginia Beach Higher Education Center, commencing at 11 a.m. and concluding at 6 p.m. Spots are still available for families who wish to participate. Those interested are strongly encouraged to secure appointments by submitting a registration form.

To date, 107 families have already registered, with approximately 150 physical exams anticipated during the clinic. The initiative aims to not only provide necessary health evaluations but also to educate and support families, particularly those who are new to the area. The clinic is designed as a comprehensive health check, covering physical health, mental well-being, eye exams, dental check-ups, and medical evaluations.

The community care clinic will be staffed by nearly 100 ODU nursing students and healthcare professionals. This nurse-led and student-run initiative emphasizes a holistic approach to health, offering services beyond just routine examinations. Community partners, such as FoodLion, will also be present at the event to distribute non-perishable food items, further enriching the support provided to participating families. In addition, Sentara will offer extra health services during the clinic, enhancing access to care for all attendees.

Old Dominion University’s Community Care Director, Tammy Speerhas, highlighted the significance of the clinic, affirming its role in educating families and ensuring their overall well-being. Dr. Jessica Parrott from ODU reiterated that the clinic transcends routine evaluations, presenting a unique opportunity for comprehensive health assessments.

In summary, the reinstatement of ODU’s free community care clinic is a proactive response to the healthcare needs of local families, providing them with the tools necessary for healthy futures. The initiative reflects ODU’s ongoing commitment to public health and community service, ensuring that vital resources remain accessible to those who need them most.