Support for Uninsured in Ohio: A Patient's Story of Recovery

Ray Scurry, a resident of Steubenville, Ohio, has found essential support at the Ohio Valley Health Center during a challenging period in his life. In 2022, Scurry, who operated the largest cab service in the region for about 15 years, faced significant health setbacks. Complications from colon cancer impacted his blood sugar and blood pressure, causing temporary vision loss and forcing him to leave the transportation business.

Initially, Scurry struggled to secure health insurance coverage due to financial constraints. He explained, "I was making too much money to be able to get health insurance, but I wasn’t able to pay for the medical insurance as well as being able to pay my other bills." After successful surgery at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center, Scurry sought ongoing care for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

The Ohio Valley Health Center plays a crucial role in supporting uninsured and underinsured individuals by managing chronic conditions. Ann Quillen, the center’s executive director, emphasized the center's role in referring patients to specialists for serious illnesses, while continuing support for related conditions. "We manage things like diabetes and hypertension while they are going through the treatment if that’s what's needed," Quillen noted.

Under the guidance of Dr. Charn Nandra, the medical director, the center ensures patients like Scurry receive necessary medications, including insulin. Quillen also highlighted the center’s prescription assistance program, which provides medications valued at over $500,000 free of charge. Over the past year, the center delivered healthcare services worth more than $1.75 million.

Scurry appreciates this support, noting the relief it brings in accessing and affording crucial medications. "That takes a lot of stress off a person," he said, reflecting on the alleviation of financial pressure for prescription costs after emergency care visits.

The Ohio Valley Health Center sustains its operations thanks to committed volunteer medical providers and financial aid from grants and community support. Its primary fundraising event, the annual gala, is scheduled for April 26 at the St. Florian Event Center in Wintersville, aimed at sustaining these essential services.