A local doctor's plan to open community health clinics across the state is getting strong support from the governor. The governor's budget proposal contains $5 million dollars to expand medical care for the poor.
Most of it would go to establish community health centers. The program would be based on a plan designed by Doctor Zane Gates, who opened the first free health clinic in Altoona. He's been working with the state to establish similar clinics in other areas.
Dr. Gates' plan offers free health care for uninsured people, who then pay a small premium for hospital care. He says studies show the program effectively treats patients while saving money over the traditional healthcare plans.
Most of it would go to establish community health centers. The program would be based on a plan designed by Doctor Zane Gates, who opened the first free health clinic in Altoona. He's been working with the state to establish similar clinics in other areas.
Dr. Gates' plan offers free health care for uninsured people, who then pay a small premium for hospital care. He says studies show the program effectively treats patients while saving money over the traditional healthcare plans.
Charlotte Ames is the area's only local Health Reporter and brings you the latest medical health news weeknights. You can catch Healthcast on WTAJ News at 5:00pm and her Health Headlines report on WTAJ News at 5:30pm.