Free Physical and Dental Examinations for Children

The law clearly states that all kindergarten, preschool and middle-school children must go through physicals before the school starts in the fall.

However, there are quite a few families out there who do not qualify even for Medicaid or who simply cannot afford to pay for these physicals.

According to the executive director of the Third City Community Clinic, Susan Aguilar, someone has got to start helping these low income/uninsured people.

Therefore on July 23rd and August 12th the Grand Island free clinic will offer the following examinations for free:

• Physical examinations
• Oral health care exams
• Vision exams
• Nutrition advice

For these free health and dental services will qualify mainly people who have recently moved to the area of Grand Island, those whose income is only slightly higher than what Medicaid allows and people who have recently started working in the area. According to Aguilar, the physicals alone can go as expensive as $150, and even more. Obviously, a lot of parents cannot afford this amount of money for health exams alone.

Aguilar further notes that 20 people already signed up, but she says that the estimated number of patients to be examined in those two days is approximately 60. A lot of children simply cannot go through more extensive physical examinations, because their parents cannot afford the costs.

All of the services provided in those two days are normally available always at the clinic, only now Aguilar says that she wanted to give something back to the community and help the people who cannot afford quality healthcare services.

Later on, in September there will be yet another free clinic day held, but there will be expected children who have just moved to the area, or those who have already started school but don’t have the necessary physicals.

Those who want to participate, have to call Aguilar and arrange an appointment at the following number: 398-5312. Attendees must also know that lab work needs to be done in prior at the St. Francis Medical Center. The costs for these lab works will be covered by the clinic.