NORMAN — Twenty-five years ago, Kathy Heiple saw a need and decided to do something about it.
Heiple was concerned that indigent people in Norman did not have access to basic health care, so she started a low-cost clinic out of a garage.
Today, Health For Friends serves low-income individuals with no insurance and no other means for care. That care includes medical ambulatory services, urgent care and health education. Health For Friends also offers comprehensive dental service and oral health education and a pharmacy to provide prescription medicine for a $3 donation.
"We have a high need in Norman that people don't recognize,” said Debbie Durham, Health For Friends manager.
In addition to pre-med and pre-dental student volunteers, physicians come twice a month to see patients. Health For Friends has a full-time dentist, physician's assistant and a part-time physician on weekdays.
Health For Friends receives support from Norman Regional Hospital and the United Way.
"We depend on generous donations and grant money,” Durham said.
Future expansion plans include the ability to accept Medicare and Medicaid patients, Durham said.
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