Golf tourney to benefit Community Clinic

On an October morning a year ago, about 25 people called the Community Clinic for appointments, but Inda Browning, who does administrative work there, had to answer with bad news.

"We don't have a doctor on tonight," she said, last October. "We only have doctors signed up for five nights in October ... Hard times are hitting us."

But Fay Womble, board president, said Thursday patients can be seen three nights a week, every week, by a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant.

Last year, the clinic saw 2,000 patients, which breaks down to about 38 patients a week. As of July of this year, they had seen 780 patients.

Womble said the clinic has seven doctors, nurse practitioners or physician assistants who serve the clinic. Three evenings a week, one of these seven is there to serve those who can't afford to pay for medical services -- those who meet federal poverty guidelines.

"As far as clinic suffering, of course, donations are down but I think they are everywhere due to the economy," she said. "We have had some doctors go away, but new ones have come ... We just got a new doctor who has come on."

The clinic operates through grants, fundraisers, and donations. Tyson has always been its biggest supporter and last year again pledged $25,000 to the clinic over the next five years.

The clinic's primary fundraiser has in the past been the "It's in the Bag" fundraiser, but they're now focusing on making their new fall golf tournament their primary fundraiser.

"I think we thought we could earn as much money doing it this way and we don't have to go out and beg (for sponsors and donations)," Womble said. "People get to come out and play golf."

In April 2008, the last big fundraiser for the clinic, $8,300 was raised, and Womble says they're hoping to top that with the golf tournament, to be held at Blackberry Ridge, which is set for Friday, Oct. 30.

"We invite everyone to join our community in support of the clinic as a sponsor," she said. "We truly appreciate any contribution made to the clinic. Without the efforts of our local businesses and individuals, there would be no answer for those needing medical assistance in Bedford County."

Dr. Frank Jayakody, Dr. Schull, Dr. Brenda Wilhite, Dr. Frederick Seifer, Lynette Womble, Mary Lynne Walker and Conan Carter serve the clinic. According to federal poverty guidelines, a person cannot make more than $9,800 to be eligible for the Community Clinic. A family of four must earn less than $20,000 a year.

The Community Clinic has been open since 2003. It is located at 844 Union St.

If you go

The Community Clinic golf tournament is Oct. 30 at Blackberry Ridge. The donation amount to play is $65 per player. The cost to sponsor a golf hole is $100. Other donations are welcomed. Lunch will be served at 11 a.m. with the tournament to begin at noon. Call Fay Womble at 580-3176.