Heights residents eligible for free medical services at North Coast Health Ministry

North Coast Health Ministry (NCHM), a faith-based charitable health center in Lakewood, now offers its services to low-income, uninsured residents of Cleveland Heights and University Heights.

Previously, NCHM services were available only to individuals who resided in any of the 17 zip codes in northwestern Cuyahoga and eastern Lorain counties. In May, NCHM eliminated zip code restrictions from its patient eligibility guidelines, enabling it to serve all of northeast Ohio.   

“Our mission has always been about increasing access to health care for the underserved,” said Lee Elmore, NCHM executive director. “The elimination of zip code restrictions will allow us to better meet our community’s changing gaps in need as the health-care environment evolves.”

NCHM provides and optimizes access to health care for uninsured individuals earning up to 250 percent of the federal poverty level. A vital part of Greater Cleveland’s health-care safety net for the past 27 years, NCHM provides primary care, prescription assistance, specialty referrals and health education.

With the support of more than 150 volunteer physicians, nurses and other caregivers, NCHM provides preventive care and chronic disease management as well as care for acute illnesses and injuries. In February, NCHM became the first free clinic in Ohio to be recognized as a Patient Centered Medical Home, Level 3, by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). 

All patients must register for services before scheduling an appointment. To register to become a patient, call 216-228-7878 ext. 127 or visit www.nchealthministry.org to print out an application form. NCHM is located at 16110 Detroit Ave. in Lakewood, and is accessible via bus on RTA’s route 26.

Jeanine Gergel

Jeanine Gergel is the NCHM's development director.

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Volume 6, Issue 7, Posted 10:23 AM, 06.10.2013