Patient Stories • Patient Statements
How We Help Our Community
- Addressing the health needs of persons excluded from the healthcare system beyond their physical illnesses.
- Relieving hard-working healthcare providers (individuals and organizations) of their non-paying patients.
- Relieving individuals and families of having to choose between paying for medication vs paying for other necessities such as food, housing and utilities.
- Addressing primary healthcare needs where they belong: in a Family Care setting –instead of in an Emergency Room.
- Preventing the development of full-blown emergent health conditions by addressing health problems at their onset and managing chronic conditions.
- Increasing health and wellness to a substantial part of the workforce.
- Building a sense of community and caring that transcends barriers and delivers a sense of joy and value to those who serve.
Patient Stories
Our patients come from different backgrounds and circumstances, but the one thing they have in common is that they are all grateful for the services they receive from Coastal Volunteers in Medicine. We share a few of their stories so you may see how your support is so very helpful.
Paul lives in Beach Haven West with his wife Maria. A few years ago, he got hurt at his job, couldn’t work, and therefore couldn’t afford health insurance. When he heard of CVIM, he felt ashamed to reach out. He was ashamed he couldn’t afford health care. But the professional care, he received helped him to overcome his fears. More, the personal care and follow-up helped him to rise above any inhibitions and move on with his life.
Today, Paul is working and paying for his own health care. He is grateful to Coastal for helping him out during a most stressful time. He says,” I’ll tell everyone and anyone about the great care and attention I received.”
Bob credits the CVIM with saving his life. His symptoms were diagnosed correctly, and through the influence of the nursing staff, Bob was able to get two stents put in at Deborah Heart and Lung Center. The doctors were amazed he didn’t have a heart attack. He’s recovering and back to work.
Bob and his wife live in Forked River. They both work. They do not have enough disposable income to afford health care. He says,” I believe I’m sitting here speaking with you because of the intervention and professionalism of the staff. I have some friends who cannot afford insurance. One of them recently died because of lack of primary care.”
A female patient: “I live in Little Egg Harbor with my husband, who is six years my senior. When we moved here, I couldn’t find work that offered health care benefits. I wasn’t sure what to do. My husband was on Medicare, but we couldn’t afford care for me. Then, I saw an ad in the church bulletin for CVIM. I called and received an appointment. The care and concern I received was as good as or better than I’ve received in a traditional doctor’s office. I can’t praise them enough for their wonderful work”
Patient Statements
“CVIM staff are caring, thorough, and show their patients they are #1. CVIM has by far exceeded my expectations as a provider of primary care and psychiatry. I totally appreciate their compassion and manner in ensuring all bases are covered regarding my care.“
“All staff members have provided a safe, comfortable environment. Care has been above and beyond what I expected and they always resolve any problem that arises. I often refer people in the same financial situation as myself.”
“I have been very happy and pleasantly surprised. I have been happier coming here than when I had insurance and went to other doctors. I just told two friends about the clinic.”
“The medical care is awesome – better than any other doctor that I have gone to. I have a lot going on in my life and VIM has helped me survive and get through.“
“I was a Sandy victim and had a lot of stress and anxiety. Pat was very compassionate and caring and also prescribed the proper medicines.”
“So appreciative to so many amazing people in this volunteer office. Wonderful drs, nurse practitioner and therapist that I’ve been blessed to see for about 4 yrs now. I don’t know where i would be without them. Such a big help with not having insurance.”
“This place is wonderful. The people that work here are so friendly and helpful! I saw a nurse practitioner Lyndsay today and she was just great! She was so informative! She answered all of my questions that I have been worrying about. I feel so much better after seeing her today.”