Our History

 

Our mission began in 1999 when Eugene Jackson created HealthLink - a free clinic modelled after the Volunteers in Medicine clinic in Chester County – to meet the medical and dental needs of working, uninsured adults.  His goal was to “bridge the gap” between qualifying for Medicaid coverage and having the ability to afford healthcare coverage.  The medical clinic opened its doors in April 2001, and the dental clinic opened soon after in August.

 

The healthcare landscape has changed dramatically in the last 20 years, and that “gap” has greatly diminished.  The Affordable Care Act provides health insurance coverage to individuals at much reduced rates.  Healthy PA has expanded coverage to those up to 133% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. In addition to the new options for insurance coverage, there are two other free clinics in Bucks County that offer services to those without access to health insurance.  

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As national initiatives took hold, the Board of Directors made the strategic decision to focus our efforts and resources solely on providing dental care. March 20, 2015 is the final day that the clinic provides medical services.

 

The dental care that HealthLink provides is still greatly needed in our community.   Eugene Jackson founded HealthLink to fill the gap for available care– not to duplicate services.  To best utilize our resources and remain faithful to our mission, HealthLink will expand its dental services for patients who live in Bucks and Montgomery Counties.