Model of Medical Mercy

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Arkansas has the worst dental health in the United States, the highest maternal death rate and the third highest infant mortality rate. While these statistics are daunting, there are medical professionals tackling the epidemic and making healthcare more available to fellow Arkansans. Five years ago, Dr. Lee Wilbur and his wife Lori helped established Divine Mercy Health Center as mobile medical clinics in Southwest Little Rock. Last year, this faith-inspired organization welcomed patients to a permanent location offering physical, dental and mental healthcare – addressing health disparities across the state. 

Divine Mercy Health Center provides affordable primary care, mental health services, addiction counseling and more. “We were called to serve the underserved, addressing both medical needs and the social determinants of health that often underpin poor health outcomes,” explains Dr. Wilbur, who is an emergency room physician at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock. “Our mission is rooted in compassion and accessibility.”

Acknowledging that poverty, lack of transportation, inadequate housing and limited education are significant barriers, Divine Mercy Health Center integrates fundamental resources with a membership model that ensures no one is denied due to inability to pay. “We began our mobile medical missions in at-risk neighborhoods in Southwest and Downtown Little Rock then eventually moved to North Little Rock,” adds Lori, who is a former physical therapist. “We address immediate health concerns while connecting patients to long-term resources.” She notes that this healthcare model emphasizes community involvement; volunteers are trained to sustain efforts. “We could not do what we do without the volunteers. They are truly servant leaders in our community.”

This past December, Divine Mercy Health Center opened its first clinic at Colonel Glenn Road and University Avenue. Welcoming uninsured, underinsured and insured patients – the clinic’s membership plan is $30/month or $300/year that includes six visits, four lab tests and a mental health assessment and options for additional visits with credits toward membership. They hope to expand statewide soon. “With the support of donors and volunteers, we can bring quality healthcare to areas that have healthcare deserts and equity gaps. Wherever the state’s most vulnerable populations, we want to bring mobile and brick-and-mortar clinics.” To date, the organization’s annual Big Dill Pickleball Tournament generates critical funding. 

Dr. Wilbur encourages everyone to consider ways to support Divine Mercy Health Center. “If someone wants to help in our mission, one of the ways is by contributing toward our membership model, which helps someone get consistent healthcare for a year. Every donation ensures that someone receives quality, affordable care without financial strain.” With this winning combination of medical expertise and mission fulfillment work, the Wilburs are transforming lives and building healthier communities in Arkansas, one patient and one community at a time. 

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