Walter Andrews got to know Bradley Free Clinic when he was young. His family didn’t have health insurance, so they turned to the Clinic, then known as The Way Inn, for healthcare.
As he got older, he and his family wanted to show their appreciation for the care they had received, and for many years they volunteered regularly at the Clinic doing odd jobs. Walter even met First Lady Barbara Bush during her visit to the clinic in 1990.
Walter retired a few years back and became eligible for Medicare. He transitioned to other health care providers, but he never forgot his relationship with Bradley Free Clinic. When COVID-19 vaccines became available, he turned to Bradley Free Clinic.
“When I got my shot, I teared up a little,” said Walter. Mr. Andrews has since gotten his second dose of the vaccine and is now fully vaccinated.
Since 1974, Bradley Free Clinic has created a health safety net for the community. In March, Bradley Free Clinic began distributing the COVID-19 vaccine to patients according to guidelines as dictated by the state health department. We have also filled the gap for many eligible people by reaching out to our community partners and local churches to identify those who were unable to get the COVID vaccine.
“This past year has been difficult for everyone, and it has been especially challenging for our patient population,” said Bradley Free Clinic Executive Director Janine Underwood. “We have adjusted our processes to provide quality care while making safety a priority during the pandemic. We are pleased to be a part of a solution that is a step toward getting our community back to a sense of normalcy.”
COVID-19 vaccine clinics are normally held each Wednesday at the Clinic. Through early April, Bradley Free Clinic has dispensed 1,500 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
