Local Doctor Shawn Raymond was recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for his dedication to his country and community, during the VFW #StillServing campaign.
Dr. Raymond sees patients three times a week at the Howard Clinic, provides inmate care and works in the Emergency Room at Greenwood County Hospital (GWCH) and Wilson Medical Center a few times a month; but, that is not why he is being recognized.
After serving with the United States Army, from 1989-2001, Dr. Raymond returned to his hometown of Altoona and began nursing school. He earned his LPN in 2003 and became a Nurse Practitioner in 2013. He would later obtain his Doctorate degree as a Nurse Practitioner and opened a free clinic in October of 2014, in Altoona.
Since then, he has seen over 1,500 patients at the free clinic, which is housed in the Verdigris Valley Christian Fellowship, located at 215 13th Street, in Altoona. Prior to COVID, the clinic saw an average of 25-30 patients during their weekly afternoon walk-in clinics on Wednesdays. Since then, the clinic now requires appointments and averages 12-15 per Wednesday afternoon.
Dr. Raymond noted that the cost is the primary reason they continue to fill appointments at the free clinic, further sharing that most reside within a 60-mile radius. “Everything at the clinic is free,” stated Raymond. The clinic provides wound care, chronic condition management, laceration care, common flus/ colds and even DOT physicals. Although no costs are associated with the services, the clinic does accept donations to assist with operating costs. Dr. Raymond noted that he refers patients to various locations, including GWCH and the Southeast Kansas Charitable Health Clinics, for lab work or further care when needed. The most rewarding part is providing any care for those that otherwise wouldn’t get it,” stated Dr. Raymond. He further noted that many may not visit clinics due to fees they may accrue and can’t cover the costs.
“My Dad always had a vision for a free clinic,” stated Dr. Raymond. “When I went from the military to back home, it just fit,” he stated. His father, the late James Raymond, began the Verdigris Valley Christian Fellowship and served as the Pastor of the church for years, until his health declined and Pastor Bethany Raymond took over. For nearly six years, J. Raymond witnessed his vision flourish, as his son, daughter-in-law and wife provided care to patients in the area. J. Raymond passed away in 2019.
#StillServing showcases how America’s veterans continue to serve in ways outside of their military service. Veterans are involved in their communities and exemplify the best of America, and many are VFW members representing the heart of today’s VFW. Those wishing to schedule an appointment at the Free Clinic can do so by calling 620-568-2005 and leaving a message.
A complete article can be found in the July 5, 2023 issue of The Eureka Herald, which is available for purchase at The Eureka Herald.
