When faced with a medical emergency, for many it’s as simple as calling their primary physician or visiting their local hospital. However, for the nearly one in five in Central Florida who lack health insurance, forgoing help is often the choice made to avoid medical bills.
It was 2010 when Rosa experienced her first major medical issue. With no insurance and very few options, a friend provided her information about a new medical home that was preparing to open its doors.
“When Sally Steele and Beverly Fleming connected me to Marilyn King, I had no idea what to expect,” recalls Rosa. “I didn’t even know I was the first patient.”
As she reminisces about the day of her first appointment, Rosa immediately knew that something was different.
“Not only was everyone so welcoming but I realized that Grace doctors weren’t just doctors by title, but doctors at heart,” shares Rosa. “It didn’t matter that I didn’t have insurance. They moved heaven and earth to make sure I received the care I needed.”
Fast forward to 2020, after years of being a Grace patient, an opportunity presented itself to support the new telehealth program. We’re so grateful to share in her full-circle moment and now have Rosa as part of the Grace team. Although she is no longer a patient because she has insurance through her employer, Rosa’s connection to our patients is unlike any other because of the care she once received. As a telehealth receptionist, Rosa helps patients navigate the online system so they have everything needed for their appointments.
“I couldn't ask for a better place to serve,” shares Rosa. “What I do is not considered a job. It's a calling.”
