On May 22, Battle Ground HealthCare officially opened its doors to the community. Vickie Marsh’s vision was key to seeing this clinic become a reality. From the visioning process to the planning committee and her service on the board, Marsh has helped make this dream possible.
Jens Metzger, an internal medicine doctor, has worked with a free clinic in southwest Washington for 10 years. Metzger has a passion for helping patients with chronic needs, and has accepted the responsibility of medical director for the clinic.
Empowering Church Healthcare Outreach provides consultants to clinics providing free health care. ECHO consultant Jane Jones has been an integral part of advising throughout the clinic's start-up process.
The grand opening was attended by Battle Ground City Council members and planning commission, local firemen, and many Christians from a variety of denominations. Michael Ciraulo, Battle Ground mayor, cut the ribbon and presented a certificate to the clinic, recognizing their efforts to serve and their investment in the community's future.
Initially, Battle Ground HealthCare will be open Tuesdays from 6–9 p.m. The clinic will be helping those with chronic health conditions who are 18–65 years old, uninsured and with an income below the federal poverty line. Every visit is by appointment.
Learn more about Battle Ground HealthCare at www.battlegroundhealthcare.org.
Picture here are, from left: Jeff Fry, Battle Ground HealthCare board director; Ruthie Gohl, executive director; and Michael Ciraulo, Battle Ground mayor, at the grand opening ceremony.
