Special to 1808Delaware
December is recognized annually in Ohio as Free Clinic Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the vital role free clinics play in delivering healthcare to underserved populations across the state. Established in 2013 by the Ohio Legislature, this observance highlights the essential contributions of free clinics and their dedicated staff and volunteers who provide life-changing care to those in need. As part of this recognition, the Charitable Healthcare Network (CHN), in partnership with the Ohio Department of Health, honors outstanding individuals who go above and beyond in serving their communities.
Among this year’s honorees are three remarkable healthcare professionals from Central Ohio whose dedication and leadership have transformed lives in the region:
Dr. Kent Doherty, DO – 2024 Free Clinic Physician of the Year
Dr. Doherty, a founding physician of Grace Clinics of Ohio and well known to Delaware Countians, has dedicated his career to improving healthcare access for underserved communities. In addition to his full-time role with Central Ohio Primary Care as a practicing pediatrician, he devotes 4–8 hours monthly to providing direct patient care at Grace Clinics and serves as an active board member. With five clinic locations, Grace Clinics provides essential services to nearly 2,000 patients annually. Dr. Doherty’s leadership, compassionate care, and advocacy have transformed lives and strengthened the healthcare safety net in Central Ohio. More information can be found here.
Dr. Daniel Stowe, DDS – 2024 Free Clinic Dentist of the Year
Dr. Stowe has been a cornerstone of Stowe Mission Dental in Columbus, where he has provided free dental care to over 30,000 patients. His efforts have elevated the clinic as both a hub for patient care and a training ground for future dental professionals through partnerships with The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and Columbus State Community College’s Dental Hygiene Program. More information can be found here.
Dr. Melanie Loftus, PharmD, R.Ph – 2024 Free Clinic Pharmacist of the Year
Dr. Loftus serves as Pharmacy Director at the Hope Clinic of Ross County, where she has expanded access to essential pharmaceutical services for patients across 14 counties. Her vision and leadership were instrumental in opening the Hope Clinic Charitable Pharmacy in 2021, which now fills 700–900 prescriptions monthly for patients in need. More information can be found here.
I’d love to connect you with any of these exceptional local healthcare providers or a representative from the Charitable Healthcare Network for a story that highlights these inspiring individuals and the organizations they serve.
