This spring, the Ross Medical Education Center Port Huron, Michigan campus welcomed guests from Community First Health Centers to speak to students about the services they provide to the community. Eric Webster, Community Outreach Coordinator, shared that Community First Health Centers have locations in Port Huron and Algonac, as well as New Haven. He also shared their goal is to provide healthcare services to the homeless individuals who live in these Michigan communities. Two Ross graduates from both the Medical Assistant program and the Medical Insurance Billing and Office Administration program, Desiree Botello, RMA and Vickie Jackson, CBCS, accompanied Mr. Webster during his visit. As these two ladies now work for this special organization, they are able to share what it is like to work for Community First Health Centers.
Mr. Webster shared that he makes every effort to get out into the community in search of individuals that could benefit from the services that Community First Health Centers have to offer. He explained that their services focus on removing barriers for those who have limited health care options. They offer a sliding fee program which allows patients to receive lab work, x-rays, and other care that they would not be able to receive if it weren’t for this payment option. He further explained that their office also offers behavioral health services to those who are current patients of the clinic. Community First Health Centers also provides transportation to and from the clinic for their patients.
Desiree Botello, RMA, shared that being flexible is an essential part of being a medical assistant. She also told students that being able to think fast has helped her during many difficult situations at the clinic. She encouraged students to take notes while in class and refer to those notes often to ensure preparedness out in the field. Desiree asked the students why they wanted to have careers in the healthcare field. Many students responded that they aspire to help others and to provide exceptional patient care. Mr. Webster also took a moment to ask the students to share what types of medical facilities they were interested in working in upon graduation. This was a great opportunity for the Port Huron students to learn about an invaluable medical resource right in their own community.
For more information about Community First Health Center please visit www.communityfirsthc.org.