History of Marian Clinic | Topeka, KS

History

The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth founded Marian Clinic in Topeka, Kansas in 1988 as a unique response to documented need for medical and (later) dental care for the uninsured in our community. The Clinic has long been a community endeavor with widespread support from many faith groups, organizations, businesses, foundations, and individual donors.

Today the Clinic ministers to men, women and children of every faith and background, providing them with medical and dental care and treatment. To be eligible, individuals must be without health insurance and meet income guidelines based on national poverty levels. During 2009 the Clinic experienced a 20% increase in medical visits; we expect to provide 17,500 patient visits to around 5,200 patients in 2010. Unfortunately the annual patient census is expected to increase as the current economic crisis deepens.

The Marian Clinic depends on the 250 health care professionals who volunteer their services as doctors, dentists, nurses, and specialists to help the Clinic’s clients. Together with several paid medical and dental staff, patients receive prompt access to health care through regular appointments, phone, and face-to-face consultations. This effort helps reduce unnecessary emergency room visits. The women’s health program enables over 200 women a year to receive breast exams and to schedule mammograms for breast cancer detection. The Clinic’s emphasis on health screenings, wellness education and self-care helps bring about healthier lives for the uninsured and our holistic approach offers mental health counseling and social support as needed. The Clinic also helps medical patients obtain nearly $500,000 of free pharmaceuticals each year.

Patients pay a small fee per medical visit and a sliding scale fee based on income and the procedure for dental visits. However, no one is turned away for an inability to pay. These patient fees-for-service provide about 30% of the operating budget. The Clinic relies on support from the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and affiliates, plus gifts and grants from the public and charitable foundations for the remainder of our budget.

All donations are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donations may be sent to the Marian Clinic, 1001 SW Garfield, Topeka, KS 66604, or via this website. Contact 233-9780, ext. 330 for details.