Free health care for uninsured residents available in New Smyrna Beach.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County has partnered with Volusia Volunteers in Medicine (VVIM), a volunteer-based organization that provides free healthcare to uninsured residents in Volusia County. The partnership will allow VVIM to see patients at the DOH-Volusia clinic at 717 W. Canal Street in New Smyrna Beach.

VVIM is a group of volunteer medical professionals such as physicians, physical therapists, nurses, and dentists who offer free medical care by appointment and telehealth visits. The organization caters to patients aged 18 to 64 who do not have health insurance or Medicare, have a permanent address in Volusia County, and meet income eligibility requirements. Currently, the VVIM clinic is open from 1 to 5 p.m. on the last Friday of every month and may expand its hours as more capacity becomes available.

The partnership between the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County and VVIM is expected to bring a lot of benefits to the community, including the development of a healthier workforce, the reduction of emergency visits by uninsured residents, freeing up public dollars, and building a sense of community by allowing caregivers to volunteer their time in their community.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the partnership will be held at noon on March 2. 

Anyone interested in learning more about the services offered by VVIM may contact 386-316-2771 or email vvimmanager@gmail.com.