December 1, 2008
In English: Community Medical Services
This article describes the services provided by Olde Towne Medical Center (OTMC), in Williamsburg. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Judy Knudson, executive director of OTMC. She explained that the goal of her institution is to offer quality and cost effective primary health care regardless of the patients' ability to pay. Her clients are from local families, both adults and children.
Services are offered through three clinics: primary care, prenatal and dental. The primary care clinic has doctors and nurse practitioners that provide a variety of services such as general health care, mental health care, assistance with substance abuse, vaccination of children and adults, and referrals to specialists and other services. The prenatal clinic was recently created and it cares for women throughout their pregnancy. The dental clinic provides basic dental care for the whole family.
The costs of the services are comparable to other medical facilities in the area, but if the patient lives in the City of Williamsburg, James City County or York County the costs will be lower. The cost of a medical visit depends on the patient's income. For individuals with low income and no health insurance the cost of a visit might be $10. The patient has the option to pay during the visit or can be billed afterwards. In order to be eligible for the reduced rates, the patient must bring proof of residence in one of the three locations mentioned above. The proof can be a driver's license or a piece of mail that shows the patient's name and address. Proof of income is also required, such as an employer's pay stub.
The clinic also offers help in acquiring medication at a reduced cost. If the patient's income is low enough, the cost of medication is typically no greater than $5. The elderly will find help at OTMC in acquiring medications and the medical equipment they might need. If the patient's medical condition requires the help of a specialist or hospitalization, OTMC can provide a referral and services will be offered at a reduced rate. The cost of the first visit to the dental clinic for individuals with low income is $30 and the follow-up visits are $10.
You don't need an appointment to receive care at OTMC, but a prior appointment will reduce the waiting time at the clinic. You can call 757-259-3258 to make an appointment. OTMC does not have Spanish speakers at the reception desk. If you do not speak English, you should bring your own interpreter, but if you call two days prior to your appointment you can request the service of a volunteer interpreter. If you cannot wait two days and you wish to contract an interpreter, you can call ExactLingua at 757-564-3065 and we will be happy to provide an interpreter in your language.
OTMC is located at 5249 Olde Towne Road, Williamsburg, 23188 and has the following schedule:
Mondays, Wednesday s and Fridays from 8.30 am until 5.00 pm
Tuesdays from 7.00 am until 7.00 pm
Thursdays from 8.00 am until 8.00 pm
Immunization: Tuesdays from 9 to 11 am and from 2 to 4 pm.
Dr. Ralph Romero is CEO of ExactLingua, which offers translation and interpretation in all language combinations and is located in Williamsburg. He can be reached at rromero@exactlingua.com.
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Copyright © 2008, The Virginia Gazette
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