When Healthcare Is Out of Reach
James Bryant, MBA, PMP
Executive Director, Montgomery County Medical Society
Over the past several weeks, the MCMS staff and I have been meeting with public health partners throughout Montgomery County, including the County Health Officer and representatives from Mobile Medical Care (MobileMed), amongst others, to better understand the healthcare challenges facing our residents. I also recently had the opportunity to visit a Remote Area Medical (RAM) clinic in Takoma Park. These experiences have really opened my eyes to just how much need exists right here in our own community.
As many of you know, the people struggling to access healthcare aren't always who we might imagine. They're the working poor, maybe former federal employees who have lost their jobs and health insurance, and families struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living. They're our neighbors. They're the people standing in the grocery store, carefully watching the total climb while trying to put food on the table.
At the RAM clinic, I was struck by the tremendous need for care and the extraordinary generosity of those willing to help. Hundreds of volunteers came together to provide care, yet the demand was so overwhelming that the clinic had to stop accepting patients at 11 a.m., despite being scheduled to remain open until 6 p.m. There simply weren't enough resources to meet the need. Our conversations with local clinics have also highlighted a significant need for physician volunteers, particularly specialists.
As we work to strengthen MCMS and build a more connected physician community, I believe being an active public health partner is an essential part of that mission. Being part of a community means more than bringing our members together. It also means supporting the organizations and people who care for our neighbors, especially those who need help the most.
I recognize that nearly all of our members are already giving back in some way, whether through their practices, volunteer work, or other commitments to their communities. This isn't about asking anyone to do less of what they're already doing or adding another obligation to an already demanding schedule. Rather, we're hoping to connect with those physicians who may have some additional time or capacity and would like to put it toward a local need.
Even a small commitment can make a meaningful difference. Whether it's volunteering at a clinic, accepting an occasional specialty referral, or exploring other ways to help, there are opportunities to get involved.
If you're interested in learning more, please reach out to me directly. I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can connect your expertise with the needs of our community.
After all, being part of a community means showing up for one another.
