Organizing a Community’s Response to Community Needs
Internal medicine physician Deborah Baceski, MD, of Somerset has worked tirelessly to undo negative, sometimes life-threatening consequences that often result when routine medical problems are left untreated because patients lack insurance. In the past 14 years, she worked with her community to establish two organizations to address unmet needs: the Somerset Community Clinic and the Somerset Therapeutic Association for Riders (STAR) for children with disabilities.
In 2005, Dr. Baceski took the lead to create a free clinic for residents of Somerset County. The clinic opened in 2006 and now provides free medical services to uninsured individuals ages 18 and over. The clinic serves more than 600 residents annually.
The clinic wasn’t Dr. Baceski’s first experience helping others. Fourteen years ago, she established STAR, a therapeutic riding program, to provide safe, closely supervised riding lessons to physically and/or mentally challenged children and adults. Children who’ve participated in the program have made remarkable progress in terms of their physical abilities as well as their social skills. STAR is unique among other similar riding programs in Pennsylvania—all riding lessons are free.
“It’s amazing how many people can be helped when medical personnel and community volunteers donate considerable time, effort, and resources to address the needs of the underserved. It really makes a huge impact.”
Last Updated: 12/8/2009