Grants: 2013

For almost 40 years, the mission of The Free Medical Clinic of Greater Cleveland (The Free Clinic) has been to provide quality health care and related services free of charge to those who lack appropriate alternatives, and to advocate for policy changes that make health care available to all. Established as a hotline in 1970 by a group of people concerned about the health and welfare of young adults, it quickly developed into a clinic serving the broader health needs of the community. Today, comprehensive medical, dental and behavioral health services are provided in a modern 34,000 sq. ft. facility located in the University Circle neighborhood of Cleveland. It is equipped with 18 exam rooms, a dental clinic, therapy rooms, a fully functioning medical laboratory and a pharmacy.

 The Free Clinic Dental Clinic provides a full range of dental care, which includes extractions, restorative, and preventive care.  In 2011, the Dental Clinic provided 11,845 services to 2,376 patients. During this same time period the Dental Clinic maintained or expanded education institution partnerships, resulting in student volunteers from the CWRU School of Dental Medicine, Cuyahoga Community College’s Department of Dental Hygiene, The Cleveland Institute of Medical/ Dental Assistants and the CWRU Graduate School of Dental Medicine’s Periodontal Program. 

The majority of individuals served by the Free Clinic are low-income or on a fixed income and go without proper dental care.  Many health conditions can be detected during oral examination such as: Osteoporosis, Cardiovascular Disease, Pregnancy and Birth (poor oral health is linked to premature birth), HIV/AIDS, and Diabetes.