UChicago Medicine AdventHealth’s free medical clinics create 'healing spaces'

Across AdventHealth, a community of team members unites under a shared mission, serving more than 8 million patients annually. This team, approaching 100,000 systemwide, extends their caring hearts beyond facility walls as part of the AdventHealth Care Crew, engaging in volunteer opportunities that enhance community well-being.

A shining example of that work, and underscoring the annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of compassion and service, is the UChicago Medicine AdventHealth team, which organizes free medical clinics that provide essential health care services – including primary care, specialty care and vaccinations.

Held annually, the weekend clinic draws over 200 individuals and families, supported by hundreds of dedicated team member volunteers motivated by their own life experiences, some of which are shared below by UChicago Medicine AdventHealth GlenOaks and UChicago Medicine AdventHealth La Grange team members who have dedicated their time and efforts to ensure the success of the clinic over the last few years.

"It’s not just about logistics but about creating healing spaces."

Local health needs spark idea for free medical clinic

For David de Ramos, DO, his passion for service ignited at the age of 18 during a trip to his father’s homeland, the Philippines, where he witnessed health care disparities. Inspired by his father's legacy as a pediatrician, he pursued family medicine.

His daughter’s interest in a mission trip to Guatemala deepened his commitment, leading him to volunteer on international mission trips, including AdventHealth Global Missions trips to several countries.

Recognizing local needs in his own community, Dr. de Ramos helped to establish the first free medical clinic at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth GlenOaks.

As medical director of the clinic, his commitment to providing whole-person care involves connecting attendees with a broad range of resources, including a medical home, food pantries, housing, access to insurance and social services that lead to better health outcomes.

“It’s much more than a free medical clinic,” said Dr. de Ramos. “Many who attend are grateful because they came to see a doctor but didn’t imagine they could get much more help."

Inspiration fuels additional free services

Inspired by AdventHealth’s mission, Bela Nand, MD, who serves as the chief medical officer for UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale and UChicago Medicine AdventHealth La Grange, launched a similar clinic. “Providing free service is a way to extend our mission and connect with our purpose,” she said.

Coming from a family of physicians, Dr. Nand cherishes moments like helping a child overcome a fear of needles through dog therapy.

Jennifer Cepenas often works alongside Dr. Nand at the clinic. As director of pharmacy at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale and UChicago Medicine AdventHealth La Grange, she believes her efforts are inherently tied to a larger mission. “I hope this shows the community that we’re here for them, whether they’re in our hospitals or needing resources in whatever capacity that may be,” she said.

Logistical support is key to clinics’ success

Effective coordination of logistics is crucial for the clinic, and Kurt Martz and his team excel in this role. As director of facilities and plant management for the Great Lakes Region, Martz oversees event setups and teardowns. Martz said he feels an overwhelming sense of purpose, acknowledging that “it’s not just about logistics but about creating healing spaces.”

For Mark Bondarenko, the impact of this work is deeply personal. After immigrating to the U.S. in 2002, he once stood in line for care just like those he now serves. “I remember walking through the door with a toothache and no insurance,” said Bondarenko, regional executive director of mission integration for UChicago Medicine AdventHealth.

An impactful moment for Bondarenko occurred at the June 2024 clinic at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth GlenOaks, where he translated for a Ukrainian refugee in need. “Every year, there’s a story like that,” he said. “My goal is to help people find care like I once did.”