In the neighborhood of Mameyes in Utuado, Puerto Rico, community members have established a community health clinic to address the lack of medical services in the area. The clinic, named Clínica Comunitaria Dra. Antonia Coello, has been providing free medical services to marginalized populations since its founding in 2018. It is run by local residents under the auspices of the nonprofit organization Corporación de Servicios de Salud Primaria y Desarrollo Socioeconómico El Otoao (COSSAO).
The community health clinic has treated over 20,000 people at no charge, offering medical services to individuals with various health conditions. Many residents in the area, including the Ramos Serrano family, have benefited from the clinic’s services. The lack of medical facilities in the region previously made it difficult for families to obtain treatment, especially for those with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
The clinic not only provides medical care but also offers workshops on natural disaster preparedness and tax filing services. It has become an essential resource for the community, providing assistance with daily life, home repairs, paperwork, and access to fresh food. The facility also delivers personalized in-home care, with doctors and nurses visiting patients’ homes and arranging for dentists to make house calls.
The community health clinic has received support from humanitarian organizations, foundations, and businesses, allowing for expansion and the addition of new services. The organization is currently building a radiology facility, a laboratory, an emergency room, and a gymnasium for rehabilitation and physical therapy. These new services are expected to be available in January.
The establishment of the community health clinic in Utuado is a significant achievement for COSSAO and the local community, providing vital healthcare services and creating new job opportunities. The facility’s success is attributed to the dedication and support of the residents and the generosity of donors.