In partnership with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), the Charitable Healthcare Network (CHN) is pleased to announce Lois Wiggin as the 2024 Free Clinic Staff Member of the Year award winner. Wiggin serves as an OSHIIP Certified Counselor and Prescription Assistance Specialist at Health Partners Free Clinic in Troy, Ohio.
“Lois embodies compassion and expertise in every aspect of her work. Her tireless dedication to improving healthcare access has transformed the lives of countless individuals in our community,” reads the nomination for this award.
Wiggin’s dual role at Health Partners Free Clinic reflects her unwavering commitment to serving the uninsured and underserved. As an OSHIIP Certified Counselor, she provided 202 Medicare counseling sessions in 2023 alone, saving beneficiaries nearly $100,000 by helping them navigate complex coverage options tailored to their needs. As a Prescription Assistance Specialist, she secured 541 no-cost prescriptions for nearly 100 patients, valued at over $558,000, ensuring vital medications for those facing financial barriers.
“Lois has established herself as a trusted resource for our patients and the community,” said Deb Miller, Executive Director of Health Partners Free Clinic. “Her efforts have not only improved health outcomes but also uplifted the spirits of those who rely on her guidance. She truly exemplifies the mission of our clinic.”
Founded in 1998, Health Partners Free Clinic provides free medical care to the uninsured and underinsured residents of Miami County. The clinic offers various services, including chronic care management, medication assistance, acute care, and patient education. Through the tireless work of staff like Lois Wiggin, the clinic continues to ensure access to high-quality healthcare for the most vulnerable members of the community. For more information about Health Partners Free Clinic, visit healthpartnersclinic.org.
As part of Free Clinic Appreciation Month (FCAM), the Charitable Healthcare Network and the Ohio Department of Health recognize the accomplishments of Ohio's free clinics through annual Free Clinic Award presentations. FCAM was established in 2013 by the Ohio Legislature through H.B. 320 to honor and raise awareness about the vital role free clinics play in delivering essential healthcare to Ohio’s most vulnerable populations.
This year’s award recipients will be celebrated at the 2025 Charitable Healthcare Network Safety-Net Symposium, held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, in Columbus. This annual event brings together healthcare leaders, policymakers, and community partners to recognize the impact of free and charitable clinics in strengthening Ohio’s healthcare safety net, fostering equity, and delivering high-quality care to underserved populations.
More information about FCAM, CHN, and the upcoming symposium can be found at charitablehealthcarenetwork.org.
