DESOTO COUNTY

DeSoto County in Southwest Florida is one of the most beautiful rural counties in the state. Arcadia, the county seat, takes pride in its regal old homes, historic structures, numerous antique shops, and the county health department.

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Most clients of the health department have needs that go beyond the traditional image of health care, although that has definitely been lacking in many of their lives. The department takes a holistic view of health and is making efforts to help clients build the skills that will enable them to become more self sufficient and financially stable. This, in turn, will help them improve their knowledge of healthy lifestyle behaviors, their access to medical treatment, and their quality of life.

Volunteers are needed to make this vision come true. The health department needs licensed health care professionals so that it can expand the services offered and it needs other volunteers, such as retired teachers, grandparents, and others to read to children in the waiting room, help students with homework, and teach adults to read and speak English.

If you are interested in becoming a part of this exciting challenge, please contact Cynthia Scott at the DeSoto County Health Department, 34 South Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, FL 34266. She may also be reached by phone at (941) 993-4601 ext. 117 or e-mail at Cynthia_Scott@doh.state.fl.us

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According to the health department’s administrator, Don Toews, Ph.D., M.P.H., "Volunteers are the backbone of any organization serving the residents and visitors to our county. On behalf of the DeSoto County Health Department, I would encourage anyone to volunteer with a service agency in our community. The rewards of your volunteerism will be appreciated by all."

Clinica de Ayuda Health Center is a joint volunteer effort between the DeSoto County Health Department and Bon Secours St. Joseph Hospital. Through a state grant, the health department was able to purchase dental equipment for the clinic. The state also provides sovereign immunity to dental volunteers. The clinic serves the medical and dental health care needs of low income persons in Arcadia.

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A medical history and vital signs are taken of every patient coming to the clinic, regardless of whether they are seeking medical or dental services. If it is determined that a patient is in need of additional services which can be provided by the clinic, they receive them. This will ensure, for example, that all children coming to the clinic are current with their immunizations and adults with high blood pressure are effectively treated.

Sister Elaine Davia, A.R.N.P., of Bon Secours St. Joseph Hospital worked tirelessly to organize the clinic, from seeking donations of time, money and materials to purchasing the building and equipment, coordinating volunteers, obtaining necessary permits, and promoting the clinic in the community.

"To me, the number of volunteers has been the most exciting thing. They were out here working; painting, cleaning, and making the clinic ready for the patients long before we opened our doors."

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If you would like to know more about volunteering at the Clinica de Ayuda Health Center, Sister Elaine can be reached at (863) 491-5110.