Making a difference through professional service
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In 1996, seeing a need in her Western NC community, Dr. Suzanne Landis worked tirelessly to persuade fellow physicians to donate their time and medical expertise to patients who could not afford needed care. Her efforts led to the creation of Project Access, a pioneering charity care system that helps low-income patients in Buncombe and Madison counties to receive the care they need.
In June, Project Access celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of connecting uninsured and low-income patients with free specialty care. Project Access works with partner hospitals and practices to coordinate free care for patients, serving 2,500 patients each year. The program also helps by providing patients with transportation to medical appointments, durable medical equipment, prescriptions and more. The Project Access model has been replicated 200 times across the nation, including 17 similar programs in our state.
As Project Access moves into its fourth decade, NCMB is highlighting opportunities for physicians and PAs across North Carolina to serve their communities. Clinicians interested in donating their time and expertise can explore the organizations below to find charitable medical programs that help vulnerable residents access needed care.
CLICK HERE to look for volunteer opportunities in your area.
Volunteering medical services in NC
There are many pathways to volunteerism in our state, depending on a medical professional’s current licensure status.
Active, unrestricted NC licensees: Physicians and PAs who hold active, unrestricted NC licenses do not need a special permit or specific license to volunteer. Licensees should check with their professional liability carrier for information regarding malpractice coverage in volunteer settings.
Retired NC licensees: Physicians and PAs who have retired or are planning to retire but wish to volunteer medical services with charitable organizations may apply for a Retired Limited Volunteer License. Please note this option is for clinicians who elect not to maintain an active full license. There is no application or renewal fee, but Retired Limited Volunteer Licenses must comply with CME requirements.
Out-of-state licensed physicians and PAs: Physicians and PAs who are licensed by a US state or territory but do not hold an active NC professional license may volunteer at qualifying indigent care clinics with a Limited Volunteer License. This license permits practice at indigent clinics in NC for up to 30 days per calendar year. In addition, during natural disasters or other emergency circumstances, NCMB may issue Limited Emergency Licenses to out-of-state clinicians who volunteer medical assistance. There are no application or renewal fees associated with either of these license types.
CLICK HERE to find volunteer opportunities near you.
In June, Project Access celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of connecting uninsured and low-income patients with free specialty care. Project Access works with partner hospitals and practices to coordinate free care for patients, serving 2,500 patients each year. The program also helps by providing patients with transportation to medical appointments, durable medical equipment, prescriptions and more. The Project Access model has been replicated 200 times across the nation, including 17 similar programs in our state.
As Project Access moves into its fourth decade, NCMB is highlighting opportunities for physicians and PAs across North Carolina to serve their communities. Clinicians interested in donating their time and expertise can explore the organizations below to find charitable medical programs that help vulnerable residents access needed care.
CLICK HERE to look for volunteer opportunities in your area.
Volunteering medical services in NC
There are many pathways to volunteerism in our state, depending on a medical professional’s current licensure status.
Active, unrestricted NC licensees: Physicians and PAs who hold active, unrestricted NC licenses do not need a special permit or specific license to volunteer. Licensees should check with their professional liability carrier for information regarding malpractice coverage in volunteer settings.
Retired NC licensees: Physicians and PAs who have retired or are planning to retire but wish to volunteer medical services with charitable organizations may apply for a Retired Limited Volunteer License. Please note this option is for clinicians who elect not to maintain an active full license. There is no application or renewal fee, but Retired Limited Volunteer Licenses must comply with CME requirements.
Out-of-state licensed physicians and PAs: Physicians and PAs who are licensed by a US state or territory but do not hold an active NC professional license may volunteer at qualifying indigent care clinics with a Limited Volunteer License. This license permits practice at indigent clinics in NC for up to 30 days per calendar year. In addition, during natural disasters or other emergency circumstances, NCMB may issue Limited Emergency Licenses to out-of-state clinicians who volunteer medical assistance. There are no application or renewal fees associated with either of these license types.
CLICK HERE to find volunteer opportunities near you.
