Making a Difference: The Free Clinic Extraordinary Volunteers
Growing up in Lubbock, I’ve had the opportunity of witnessing change and growth. This was particularly evident in the medical field, as multiple hospitals and clinics were built to accommodate the greater West Texas area. However, I also knew that certain groups of people were being left behind. Those who could not afford to pay out of pocket and, for whatever reason, were not on any type of insurance, were overlooked. So, part of my decision to return to Lubbock for medical school was knowing that I would be able give back to this community. It seemed obvious that the best way to do this would be through The Free Clinic.
By far my favorite part of The Free Clinic is getting to see the longitudinal progression of patients in the clinic. Most of the time, when I first meet a patient, I am astounded by the number of medical problems they have. Hearing their stories and knowing the huge responsibility I am taking by entering their lives drives my desire to help. As we work through issues, tackling one problem at a time, I am always amazed by how they progress and how the clinic can significantly change their lives. It is a humbling experience for me.
Some of the best things I have learned in my time at the clinic are patience and collaboration. Things can’t always be fixed by one change or one visit, and I may not be able to see the same patient every single week, but I know that relying on others and absorbing everything I can from upperclassmen makes me a better caretaker for the people I’m there to serve.
Paul David Gaschen is a second-year medical student and also president of the Raider Med Run Club from Lubbock. He received his Bachelor of Arts University Scholars degree at Baylor University and has an interest in orthopaedic surgery.
Related Stories
How Does Your Garden Grow?
As spring approaches, some people’s thoughts turn to gardening. Whether it’s a flower garden they desire or a vegetable garden want to have, they begin planning what they’ll plant and what they need to do to ensure a successful garden.
Adopt a Growth Mindset for a Better Life
A “growth mindset” accepts that our intelligence and talents can develop over time, and a person with that mindset understands that intelligence and talents can improve through effort and learning.
Drug Use, Family History Can Lead to Heart Disease in Younger Adults
Abstaining from drug abuse and an early diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) can help prevent heart disease.
Recent Stories
Texas Tech Physicians Multispecialty Clinic to Open in South Lubbock
The Texas Tech Physicians Multispecialty Clinic will be home to eight clinical services including cardiology, endocrinology, family medicine, internal medicine, orthopaedics (sports medicine), psychiatry, surgery and urology.
TTUHSC Pioneers New Pathway for Pharmacy Education
The TTUHSC Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy is positioning itself for the future with the announcement of its new Pioneer Pathway, an innovative educational pathway that will leverage hybrid learning strategies.
The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Master of Public Health Program Awarded Seven-Year Accreditation
The MPH program at the TTUHSC Julia Jones Matthews School of Population and Public Health has been awarded seven-year accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) through July 1, 2031.