Ferris State University to host free medical, dental, and vision clinic

Ferris State University has partnered with national nonprofit organization Remote Area Medical to host a free vision, dental, and health clinic in Big Rapids, Michigan on May 31 and June 1. The services will be provided by professionals and volunteer healthcare providers from around the state, as well as faculty and students from the university’s College of Health Professions, Michigan College of Optometry, and College of Pharmacy. Services provided will include dental cleanings and extractions, vision exams and glasses, and physicals and blood work.

According to an article on Ferris State University’s website, Becky Johnson Himes, an associate professor within the School of Nursing, was quoted as saying of the event, “We believe this clinic will be an excellent opportunity for our community and healthcare partners to work collaboratively toward improved community health. Ferris nursing students have traveled to other states to participate hands-on at RAM events and provide care to people in need. Attending these clinics had a profound impact on the students, leading them to advocate for a RAM clinic to be held at Ferris and serve the surrounding communities. We are looking forward to working side by side with RAM and all the volunteers to improve the health of the community.”

RAM, which is based in Tennessee, has helped to provide people from rural and underserved populations with healthcare services they may not typically be able to access, either due to their geographic locations or due to not being able to afford healthcare. The organization has helped more than 977,000 people receive free healthcare services since 1985.

The RAM that Ferris State University will be working with on May 31 and June 1 will help people in Mecosta, Clare, Isabella, Lake, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties, which are areas that struggle with poverty and access to medical and dental care. At the RAM clinic, adults and children will be able to receive completely free medical, dental, and vision services without showing proof of insurance and without showing their identification. Services will be provided on a first come, first serve basis, and translation services will be available.

Organizers of the event are seeking volunteers to donate their time and expertise to the clinic, including physicians, nurses, and individuals willing to help with general event organization tasks, like assisting with parking and patient registration.

The event will take place at Ferris State University’s Ewigleben Sports Complex, located at 210 Sports Drive. Doors will open at 6 am.

For more information about Ferris State University, visit the school’s website.