The Rural Health Clinic that provides a physician when you

need one — and for those in need — needs some assistance

Dr. Lowe sees patient Edna Burke, who expresses her feelings about Dr. Lowe and the RHCC with a thumbs-up gesture.

By KEITH WALTHER

Vista Publisher/Editor

At a time when the cost of health insurance costs an arm and a leg…

At a time when the Hippocratic Oath has been made to look hypocritical by some doctors…

It is refreshing to learn of men like Dr. Harold Lowe.

Dr. Lowe is the founder and Medical Director for the Rural Health Clinic of the Cumberlands — giving tirelessly to provide effecient health care to those who cannot afford it.

But the retired doctor who volunteers his skills for those in need, has needs, too.

Dr. Lowe’s operation — in order to continue its charitable work — needs volunteers (doctors, nurses, techs, etc) and donations.

“We’re a non-profit providing primary medical care for the unisured/uninsurable in Cumberland and White counties,” explained RHCC Executive Directory Diana Gustafson.  “Currently our greatest need is for volunteers, especially those who may be retired medical professionals.

Dr. Lowe confers with nurse volunteers.

“All of our medical staff are volunteers. We are also in need of volunteers to assist with clerical duties.”

The Clinic, located at 9400 Sparta Hwy., in Crossville, is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 11a.m. -3 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. -1p.m. Patients are seen by appointment only.

The Clinic has one part-time employee in Office Manager Debie Osborn and, as a whole, the staff along with volunteers logged approximately 7,200 man hours and saw 1,200 patients during the last fiscal year.

And the patients are not just given cursory care. In fact, for a $12 visit charge, they are provided diagnostic testing including reduced cost labs, diabetic and heart disease monitoring, and specialist referrals, if needed.

And so why are organizations like the RHCC needed? Simply put, a fast-growing amount of Americans just cannot afford health insurance premiums that often exceed $500 per month. Many have lost jobs and company insurance.

In addition, even IF ones can afford some type of insurance, often times their policies do not cover pre-existing conditions or have “riders” that limit what is covered. It is startling to learn that, according to the Tennessee Department of Health, 18,000 people in Tennessee died in 2009 as a result of lack of health care.

“Many just simply go without care, whether by pride, fear of not being able to pay the bill and losing everything, not knowing where to turn,” Gustafson said in the Clinic’s Mission Letter.

This is the staff that makes it all happen at the clinic: Left to right, Dr. Lowe, Medical Director; Diana Gustafson, Executive Director; and Debbie Osborn, Office Manager.

And that is when they often turn to the RHCC. However, in the future, there may not be anything to turn to.

“We are at a crossroads,”  Gustafson notes.  “Up until now we have relied heavily upon grants … for a major portion of our operating budget. In light of the possibility of the loss of this resource we must begin a preparatory step up in our fundraising efforts.”

Just as important as funding, is the need for new volunteers. If you are a retired doctor, nurse or specialist, Gustafson asks that you consider donating your expertise for one or two days a week for four hours.

“Funding is important but without the staff to utilize it, it’s just money,” she said.  “Perhaps most important of all … you can pass the word … if you meet someone and discover there is a need, please tell them about us. However you may chose to help, you will not only be offering hope, you may just be saving a life.”

And after all, lives and the quality of life is what the RHCC is all about.

“We do not know wh the future holds in regard to health care,” said Nancy Bliss Quarles, RHCC Board President. “While we must prepare for what may or may not happen, our focus is and must remain on the person who walks through our door in need today.”

That sounds a lot like the modern day Hippocratic oath that states at its conclusion:

“If I do not violate this oath, may I enjoy life and art, respected while I live and remembered with affection thereafter. May I always act so as to preserve the finest traditions of my calling and may I long experience the joy of healing those who seek my help..”

Certainly, it sounds like Dr. Lowe and his staff of volunteers have earned that privilege.