A Healing Space
The clinic quickly outgrew the rectory and found itself in need of a larger space. “We were extremely fortunate. The building we’re in now used to be the Gates Memorial Library. It had fallen into disrepair, but the trustees wanted to preserve it because of its historical significance,” explains Manganiello. “They gave us basically a perpetual lease at a dollar a year.” A grant from the federal government and another from an anonymous donor provided funds for GNHC to renovate the building into a unique clinic space in the center of White River Junction. Beyond the brick façade of the two-story, neo-Gothic revival building is a waiting room that is more like a well-decorated home parlor. Huge stained glass windows top the high-paneled cherry wood bench scattered with throw pillows. A wicker love seat and soft armchairs circle the stone fireplace. Tucked back in the children’s corner are building blocks and games. Built-in bookshelves filled with brochures and educational information line the walls. Large, curved fixtures shine down from the arched ceiling, their light bouncing off vibrant-colored walls. Upstairs houses the medical clinic, downstairs the dental clinic. Short halls lead to spotless exam rooms and dental operatories. Although the fireplace may remain unlit, the real warmth of the clinic comes from the caring and committed staff who greet visitors when they walk through the door.
Primary and Preventive Care
Along with the unwavering commitment of staff and volunteers, another thing that has never changed, says Armando Alfonzo, executive director of GNHC, is this: “The services we offer have always been free.” The clinic provides basic primary care, such as exams, screenings—including vision—and blood pressure testing. “But it’s a myriad of circumstances that bring individuals to the clinic,” says Alfonzo. “We also have specialized services for women, like mammograms and PAP tests.” There are exercise, fitness, and weight management opportunities for the patients. Health programs in smoking cessation, diabetes education, nutrition, and oral health are also offered. The dental clinic offers many similar educational workshops, as well as X-rays, fillings, extractions, and cleanings.
“What we can accomplish with primary care at the clinic helps keep individuals from showing up at the hospital’s emergency room for something like a toothache, which is not a very good use of the ER,” says Alfonzo. “When we have exhausted our capabilities, we can refer patients to a hospital or specialist for more specialized care. Those who qualify for our free care usually also qualify for the charity care from hospitals and institutions. Occasionally, area dentists are willing to take on some of our patients and their care.”
Every Little Bit Counts
Both the medical and dental clinics rely heavily on volunteers. “We don’t have physicians or dentists on staff, but we have experienced and devoted professionals from the community that volunteer,” says Alfonzo. “Depending on which specialists are available often determines what services we can provide at any given time.” Good Neighbor has strong working relationships with the regional hospitals. Physicians and nurses from DHMC, APD, and Mount Ascutney, as well as other health care facilities, volunteer their time and skills. However, as dental assistant Carol Bean will tell you, “We would really love it if more dentists volunteered, even if it is for a half-day a month. Whatever works with their schedule. There are so many more people we could help. There’s always a long waiting list for dental care, but we don’t have the staff.” Bean speaks from experience—she has been with the clinic since it began back in the rectory. The shortage of dentists at the clinic is reflective of the scarcity throughout the Upper Valley.
Paying It Forward
Good Neighbor is fortunate to attract medical and dental students from across the region. Chris Barth, a newly minted DMD, was a dental student at Harvard University when he chose GNHC as his three-month externship location. “I had heard good things about the clinic. Being there helped me build my self-confidence and efficiency, which in turn helps toward healing the patient.” Another benefit for Chris was working with various supervisors. “I got to work with different mentors and learned about their specialty areas, so I really tried to take advantage of that exposure.” “We’ve had a number of students from Boston and from Geisel School of Find image at www.mountainviewpublishing.com •
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