Source Newsroom: University of Virginia Health System Newswise —
They are forty-something, overweight or obese, and suffer from
arthritis, diabetes and/or hypertension. The overwhelming
majority are either uninsured or covered by government programs
such as Medicare or Medicaid. Most live in Virginia, and
slightly more than half have access to a primary care physician.
According to a new report from the University of Virginia Health
System, these characteristics typify patients treated at the
annual, three-day Remote Area Medical clinic at the fairgrounds
in Wise, VA. The report is the first to provide detailed patient
information from the Wise event, which is now the nation's
largest free mobile health clinic. Started 10 summers ago, the
30-hour clinic provides dental, vision and medical care to
thousands of people who are sick, suffering and have limited or
no access to ongoing healthcare. The event provides many with
their only opportunity to see a doctor all year. It also plays a
vital role for insured, l