Partner Spotlight: The Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics

Tell us a little about VAFCC.

Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Richmond, the Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (VAFCC) is an effective advocate for the issues and concerns of free and charitable clinics, their volunteer workforce of health care professionals, and the patients served by free and charitable clinics in communities throughout the Commonwealth. We believe that every person deserves access to basic healthcare services. Therefore, the VAFCC supports Virginia’s network of free and charitable clinics in order to serve those who fall through the gaps of the healthcare system with compassionate and comprehensive healthcare services regardless of their ability to pay. The VAFCC’s member clinics are safety-net health care organizations that utilize a volunteer/staff model to provide a range of medical, dental, pharmacy, vision, and/or behavioral health services to uninsured and underinsured individuals. Free and charitable clinics treat the whole patient by providing a combination of care that addresses not only healthcare needs but social needs as well. 

What are some ways VAFCC can identify health issues related to energy consumption and offer some solutions?

For healthcare providers like our member clinics, energy efficiency isn’t just a cost-saving measure. It directly supports better patient care, streamlined operations, and a healthier indoor environment. We’re excited to partner with VES so our members can take advantage of available incentives to improve comfort for patients and staff, as well as lower utility costs and be able to invest more in care delivery.

What are some ways VAFCC is working locally to better the health of Virginians? Are there any energy-efficiency-related efforts?

Virginia’s free and charitable clinics have a long history of providing much needed quality healthcare to Virginia’s most vulnerable populations – and providing that care with compassion, dignity, and respect. By delivering important preventative and chronic care, Virginia’s free and charitable clinics help patients remain healthy, reduce unnecessary visits to the emergency room, and avoid missed time from work due to illness.

How can Virginians get involved with VAFCC member clinics locally?

Virginians can get involved locally by volunteering at a local free and charitable clinic. Many volunteers give their time and talents to help make a difference at their local clinic — and find joy and fulfillment through the experience of helping others. While healthcare professional volunteers are always needed, like physicians, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, therapists, and dentists, clinics also need help with a variety of administrative and clerical tasks. That means if you’ve got time to share, they’ll put you to work! Learn more here: https://www.vafreeclinics.org/volunteer