Lestonnac Free Clinic, a longstanding provider of free healthcare services in Orange County since 1979, is set to make history by opening the nation’s first free surgery center for uninsured patients in early 2025. This 4,000-square-foot facility in Orange, California, aims to offer essential surgical procedures at no cost, addressing a critical gap in healthcare access for the uninsured.
The clinic’s Executive Director, Edward Gerber, who has been with Lestonnac for 33 years, emphasizes the transformative impact of this initiative. “We expect this to save lives,” Gerber stated, reflecting on his own experience as a former patient who faced financial challenges in accessing necessary medical care.
The establishment of the surgery center has been significantly supported by a $4 million donation from the Thompson Family Foundation. However, additional funding is required to fully realize the project’s potential. Gerber expressed enthusiasm about creating a model for other free clinics nationwide, stating, “We’re so excited to be able to create a model for the other free clinics throughout the nation to follow and see how they can help as well.”
Initially, the center will focus on minor surgeries such as colonoscopies, endoscopies, lipoma removals, and hernia repairs. As the team gains experience, there are plans to expand the range of surgical services offered. A dedicated team of volunteer doctors, including Dr. Nitin Shah, has committed to providing their expertise. Dr. Shah highlighted the fulfillment derived from serving those in need, stating, “The true happiness comes from serving an unknown. Someone whom you don’t know. Someone from whom you don’t expect anything back.”
Lestonnac Free Clinic anticipates a grand opening at the start of the new year, with patient services commencing in February. Currently, there is a waiting list of approximately 3,000 individuals eager to receive care. This initiative represents a significant advancement in providing equitable healthcare access to underserved populations in Orange County and beyond.
https://www.lestonnacfreeclinic.org