The Jackson County Free Health Clinic Board of Directors announces that the final patient clinic will be Thursday, March 28, 2013.

The board made its decision after careful examination of all elements affecting clinic operations and its patients.

Dr. Randy Sheets is the chairman of The Jackson County Free Health Clinic Board of Directors. “The free clinic has treated hundreds of patients over the last nine years. Our intent is to have these patients continue receiving medical care at other community clinics in the area.” “The volunteer staff has worked countless hours caring for patients and will assist patients in the transition.”

There are three community health centers in the area where patients will be referred: The Shortgrass Community Health Center recently opened in Hollis at 400 East Sycamore. The Tipton Health Center is located at 211 East Baseline Road in Tipton and The Lawton Community Health Center is located at 3811 West Gore Boulevard in Lawton.

Dr. Sheets explained that the volunteer staff has done a tremendous job in its dedication to the patients. The volunteer physicians, nurses, pharmacists and clerical staff cared for patients two nights a month and many spent hours preparing for each clinic and invested supplies, food, and money from their personal finances.

“There are so many people to thank for their dedication to these patients,” stated Sheets. “The volunteers who worked at each clinic and the individuals, businesses, and churches who gave their support are to be applauded for their grand efforts to their fellow citizens.”

Patients are being notified of the clinic’s closing and will be directed to one of the area clinics. Over the next three months, patients arriving at the clinic will receive instructions about retrieving copies of their medical records and other pertinent information.

The clinic will continue with its regular schedule through March 2013. The remaining clinic dates are December 20, January 10, January 24, February 14, February 28, March 14, and March 28.