Anthony receives treatment at the RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul.
When Anthony felt an intense pain in his abdomen, he did not go see a doctor because he lacks health insurance. Anthony did the only thing he could– he got back to work and hoped the pain would go away. Anthony’s pain persisted. Luckily, he knew of the RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul.
“If I am sick, I hope it goes away,” Anthony said. “If I have to, I go to the ER, but it’s so expensive. I’m thankful through God this clinic is here. The free clinic has done so much for me. The doctors and nurses are very kind. They provide translators. I feel heard here.”
Doctors used an ultrasound to find the cause of his pain, and diagnosed him with diabetes. They gave Anthony medication, a glucometer and health education to manage his diabetes. According to Sutter Health, this would cost an uninsured patient $1,137, more than Anthony’s weekly pay.
“It’s really hard to find a doctor without insurance. I hadn’t seen one in four years,” Anthony said. “There are a lot of people in my community who avoid hospitals because they’re immigrants. They work hard, but are afraid. But here people know they’re safe. I’m so grateful for this clinic.”
Anthony came to the United States 25 years ago, to make a better life for himself. Without his family, Anthony said his community is important to him, and he feels the volunteers at the clinic are part of his community.
