Launched in 2011, this humanitarian program helps new and existing free clinics to care for the uninsured in areas of need across the United States by providing new grants for the purchase of tangible items, such as exam tables, EHR systems, and medical equipment. Family Medicine Cares USA also gives AAFP members, residents, and students the opportunity to volunteer their time and talents.
To bring visibility to the caring nature and importance of family medicine by:
There are over 30 million uninsured people in the United States. Existing free clinics have seen a dramatic increase in patients with the majority of these patients coming from working households. The need far exceeds existing capacity, and some areas have no free clinic access at all. Even now with the Affordable Care Act, there is and always will be an underserved population of men, women, and children who simply fall through the cracks.
The AAFP Foundation does not directly start and maintain free clinics, but collaborates with a non-profit organization, Volunteers In Medicine America, which has a tested model for developing sustainable, locally supported free clinics. Since the mid-1990s, Volunteers in Medicine America has assisted more than 90 communities in the clinic development process. The AAFP Foundation works with the organization to identify strong potential clinic advocates, and Volunteers in Medicine America provides expertise and guidance throughout the clinic development process.
The 2021 application period is now open. If you're interested in applying for a 2021 grant, please read the eligibility requirements and guidelines, including how to apply. Applications are accepted until July 15th at 7 pm (CDT).
As of 2020, Family Medicine Cares USA has awarded over $1.1M to 20 new clinics and 59 existing clinics. Between July 1, 2019-June 30, 2020, 43 clinics have reported over 51,000 patient visits.
Funding for the following clinics provided courtesy of The Humana Foundation.
*Family Medicine Cares USA grant awarded to new free clinic.
If you would like to be part of this rewarding work in the U.S., but do not feel like you can commit the time to volunteer, please consider making a donation. Please know that through your donation you are making a difference by helping those in need.