GateWay Community College is expanding the number of appointments and services it can provide at its HUG Clinic. The Healthcare United at GateWay (HUG) Clinic offers free ultrasound, physical therapy and pulmonary services to the community provided by students under instructor supervision.
“GateWay is located in an underserved area, and there are a number of community partners in this area whose clients can use the type of services we are offering,” said Jessica Goodman, physical therapy assisting faculty and HUG Clinic co-creator.
The HUG Clinic is also a way for students in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Physical Therapy Assisting and Respiratory Care to gain experience working with patients.
“Our students get more clinical hours, they get better at their jobs and the community benefits from the services we are able to offer,” Goodman said.
Over the summer, the Clinic added some new equipment to be able to provide more services to the community. A second ultrasound machine was added, which makes it possible to perform two ultrasounds an hour. A Nustep exercise machine was also added for respiratory patients to exercise.
Ultrasounds can be used for much more than just pregnancy. It is a tool that can be used to look at anatomical structures in the body.
Patients can come to the Clinic to get their thyroid gland, liver, kidneys, spleen, gallbladder, muscles and more looked at. Appointments are available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Physical Therapy services include an examination, therapy diagnosis, prognosis and physical intervention for mobility, function and quality of life. Appointments are available 1 to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Respiratory Care was added to the HUG Clinic last fall to help patients with their pulmonary maintenance. Patients must have physician clearance to exercise. Appointments are available starting Sept. 8, from 12 to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Patients can learn more or schedule an appointment here: http://www.gatewaycc.edu/hug-clinic