History

FOUNDER
The VIM Clinic was founded by the late Fred Carter, MD, a private practice physician who lived in Martin County for 31 years. Dr. Carter saw a need for primary health care services among working people who lacked the insurance or financial resources to access care. Because of his efforts, the state of Florida passed legislation making it possible for the Clinic to provide free health care using a corps of volunteer practitioners. State licensing was streamlined and sovereign immunity granted to volunteer physicians, nurses and allied health professionals who continue to meet the primary care needs of Martin County residents.

PARTNERS
The VIM Clinic opened its doors on October 2, 1995, as a collaborative project of the Martin County Medical Society, Martin Memorial Health Systems, and the Martin County Public Health Unit. MMHS provided a facility and a small staff that helped Dr. Carter recruit volunteer physicians, nurses and health care professionals to run the clinic.

FACILITY
By 1998, the Clinic had outgrown its space and moved to a larger facility provided by MMHS. The Martin Memorial Hospital Auxiliary donated $310,000 to remodel and relocate the VIM Clinic to 417 SE Balboa Avenue in Stuart. MMHS continued to provide operating costs and administrative assistance. With seven exam rooms, a laboratory, pharmacy and ophthalmology facility, the Clinic is able to offer the following services:

Because of our affiliation with Martin Memorial Health Systems, we are able to provide patients with access to laboratory services, diagnostic studies and ancillary programs such as:

→ Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation
→ Physical, occupational and speech therapy
→ Dietary counseling
→ Monitored exercise programs
→ Wellness Centers