HOPE opens new clinic

by Michelle Dillon michelle@thecherokeean.com
Photo by Michelle Dillon
Elaine Ballard, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC will provide non-emergency services twice weekly at a new medical clinic opened by H.O.P.E Photo by Michelle Dillon
Elaine Ballard, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC will provide non-emergency services twice weekly at a new medical clinic opened by H.O.P.E

A new health clinic for uninsured persons has been opened by H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Pursue Enrichment) at its facility, located at 595 S. Ragsdale St. in Jacksonville. Elaine Ballard, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, with over 30 years of experience in the medical field, will provide non-emergency services from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

A partnership with UT Tyler’s College of Nursing provided the majority of equipment and supplies for the clinic. Some supplies were also donated by the Cherokee County Medical Society.

Although unable to provide vaccines at this time due to a lack of the specialized refrigeration needed, the clinic hopes to partner with the health department to provide vaccines, according to Ballard.

Currently the clinic will take patients without insurance, but cannot provide services to those who have insurance due to an inability to provide billing. Although no guarantee could be made on the timeline, there is a tentative deadline to be able to provide billing by January, according to Ramona Johnson, H.O.P.E. client services manager. This will allow insured patients, including those with Medicaid, to take advantage of the local clinic.

The fee for new patients is $10 and established patients, $5 per visit. Walk-ins will be seen, but appointments are preferred.

The clinic currently operates out of two rooms in the back of the H.O.P.E. building designated for that specific purpose, but plans are in the works to move the clinic and the pantry next door into the building which formerly housed Marie’s Bookstore.

Johnson reported that talks were being held with contractors regarding the renovation of the building. As work has not yet begun, no completion date has yet been set. Once the building is ready and the clinic moves in, H.O.P.E would like to procure the services of an addition doctor or two to assist in providing health services.

To set an appointment, call (903) 586-7781.

For information on the clinic or other services provided by H.O.P.E., visit the website www.hopecenter.info or call, (903) 586-7781. The non-profit also maintains a Facebook page, Hope Jacksonville.