Become a Volunteer Healthcare Provider With EFMC!

 

For over 30 years, the Ellsworth Free Medical Clinic has provided free, high quality primary care with compassion and respect to the uninsured and inadequately insured. Volunteer healthcare providers care for patients, help with access to healthcare at all levels, and secure affordable pharmaceuticals. A small office staff oversees the clinic operations.

Programs include Primary Care Practice, Referrals to Specialty Physician Groups, Access to Prescription Assistance, Access to Free Care at Northern Light (income based), Dental Program, Mental Health Counseling, Physical Therapy, and Holistic Wellness.

EFMC does not bill patients, federal/state programs, or private insurance companies for services. Fully licensed volunteers (e.g., MDs, DOs, PAs, RNs, LPNs, and RPTs) provide almost all direct patient care. Most patients reside in Hancock County, but some come from as far away as Washington, Penobscot, Knox, Lincoln, Waldo, Kennebec, and Somerset counties.

Volunteering offers a sense of purpose and fulfillment grounding individuals in a sense of purpose that leads to personal growth, skill development and well-being. Come join our team and get a sense of community! For more information or to start the volunteering process, email office@ellsworthfreeclinic.org or call (207) 667-7953.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the process for volunteering? Interested volunteers can request an application (contact information, copies of license/certifications, vaccination history, etc.) which is reviewed by the Clinic Coordinator and approved by the Medical Director. The Clinic Coordinator then schedules an orientation and gets the new volunteer started.

​Do I need to be licensed? Medical volunteers must have a current, valid professional license or certification.

How does insurance work? With support from the Maine Health Access Foundation, EFMC offers free, federally-backed malpractice coverage for all credentialed clinicians. We apply for you and you are fully covered for your work at the clinic.

​How often are volunteers required to come in? Can I volunteer on evenings or weekends? In order to maintain a standard in quality of care, volunteers ideally commit to a regular schedule (for example, weekly or biweekly). Volunteers typically work a half-day shift (3-4 hours). Current clinic hours are Monday 8 am to 5 pm, Tues, Thurs and Fri 8 am to 12 noon, however there can be some flexibility.

​Is a criminal background check required to volunteer? Out of concern for the well-being and safety of our patients, staff, volunteers and visitors, the Clinic performs criminal background checks and child abuse clearances on all volunteers.

Can I volunteer on evenings or weekends? Current clinic hours are Monday 8 am to 5 pm, Tues, Thurs and Fri 8 to 12 noon. The Clinic is closed on Wednesdays and weekends.

How old do I have to be to volunteer? Volunteer healthcare providers must be at least 21 years old.