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3,000 doctors donate
time to ‘network of caring’
LOUISVILLE, Ky., March
20, 2002 Thousands of Kentuckians
without access to health care receive free
medical treatment each year, thanks to the
many doctors and health care providers who
volunteer for Health Kentucky.
In celebration of
National Doctor’s Day on March 30,
2002, Health Kentucky wants to recognize
the more than 3,000 Kentucky doctors who
donate their services to this statewide
program.
"Most people
don’t realize that in hundreds of communities
across the state, Kentucky’s doctors
are giving their time to care for the uninsured
without charge," said Dr. William P.
McElwain, president of the Health Kentucky
Board of Directors. "There are 3,000
physicians who give hope to those who can’t
afford health care. Kentuckians should be
proud of the many doctors who are contributing
in such a special way to their communities."
Doctor’s Day
was first observed on March 30, 1933, by
the Barrow County Auxiliary in Winder, Ga.
The idea of setting aside a day to honor
physicians was conceived by Eudora Brown
Almond, wife of Dr. Charles B. Almond, and
the recognition occurred on the anniversary
of the first administration of anesthesia
by Dr. Crawford W. Long in 1842. Following
overwhelming approval by the U.S. Senate
and House of Representatives, on Oct, 30,
1990, President George Bush signed a resolution
into law designating March 30 as National
Doctor’s Day.
Since 1984, Health
Kentucky has coordinated access to free
health care for more than 200,000 citizens
who live below the poverty level, do not
qualify for government programs and cannot
afford health insurance. Individuals can
call 800-633-8100 to apply to Health
Kentucky, a statewide, non-profit organization.
Once a person is approved, he or she remains
eligible for one year to visit volunteer
doctors, dentists, hospitals, home health
agencies and hospices, and obtain free prescriptions
donated by pharmaceutical companies. An
individual can reapply for another year
of eligibility at the end of the first year.
Note:
To arrange for an interview with a local
doctor in your community who volunteers
for Health Kentucky, please contact J Scott
Judy at 502-254-4214.
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