Mel Leaman Free Clinic

In August 2001, three nurse practioners started the Smyth County Free Clinic to aid in the access of primary health care to uninsured, low-income individuals. The clinic was developed because access to primary health care for the working poor was identified as a primary concern in Smyth County. Despite the myriad of assistance programs there were still people needing health and dental services. The clinic operates as a private, not-for-profit medical facility and does not receive reimbursement from patients or accept health insurance. All operating funds come from donations and grants. Services include: primary care, dental services, medication assistance, behavioral health, women's health, health education and specialty referrals. The clinic's name was changed to Mel Leaman Free Clinic in 2012 to honor the memory of the clinic's first Executive Director.