Free Clinic
Mission: To provide curative, preventative and diagnostic medical, dental and pharmaceutical care or specialist referrals to Catawba County residents who do not have access to these services, through the efforts of area health care professionals and volunteers.
We provide quality medical and pharmaceutical services to uninsured residents of Catawba County between the ages of 18 – 64 who meet 200% of federal poverty guidelines. If you are currently on Medicaid or Medicare, you are not eligible for our services.
Primary Medical Care:
At our free clinic we are able to care for almost anything for which you would visit a family practice physician. Most acute illnesses as well as chronic diseases can be followed and monitored in our facility. Medical Access for Catawba County (MACC) is also available for management of chronic diseases such as Diabetes, Heart Disease, Hypertension and COPD.
Limited Specialist Care:
Specialty clinics are available when volunteer physicians are available. We offer limited services in dermatology, gastroenterology, gynecology, neurology, sports medicine, orthopedics, ophthalmology, optical services and minor surgical procedures. You must see a primary care provider in the clinic for a referral.
Dental Care:
The clinic provides basic extractions, fillings and x-rays. We do not offer cleanings, crowns, root canals or dentures. You will be put on an existing waiting list for dental appointments. You must see a primary care provider in the clinic or MACC program for a referral.
Ophthalmology and Optical Care:
The clinic provides dilated eye exams and prescription glasses (if needed). You will be put on an existing waiting list for an appointment. You must see a primary care provider in the clinic or MACC program for a referral.
Outside Referrals:
If a referral is needed to a provider outside of the clinic, efforts are made to find someone who will see the patient at no charge. If this cannot be done, the patient is responsible for the bill. HOSPITALIZATION IS NOT COVERED. You must see a primary care provider in the clinic or MACC program for a referral.
Lab and X-Rays:
Most tests ordered by GHCCM’s providers are done without charge by Catawba Valley Medical Center. All tests must be ordered and scheduled by GHCCM’s volunteers or staff. Please note that you may receive other charges related to tests or procedures scheduled at Catawba Valley Medical Center by GHCCM that will not be covered. You will be responsible for paying such charges. You may contact the Business Services Department at Catawba Valley Medical Center for financial assistance.
Clinic Hours:
Monday 8:00am - 12:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 1:00pm, 5:00pm - 8:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 12:00pm
If the clinic is closed or full with appointments, seek care from the health department, an urgent care facility or the emergency room at Catawba Valley Medical Center or Frye Regional Medical Center (for emergencies only). Contact information below.
Catawba Valley Medical Center
810 Fairgrove Church Rd
Hickory, NC 28602
(828) 326-3000
Frye Regional Medical Center
420 North Center St
Hickory, NC 28601
(828) 315-5000
Unifour Urgent Care
1105 Fairgrove Church Rd
Conover, NC 28613
(828) 267-0551
Piedmont Urgent Care
2972 North Center St
Hickory, NC 28601
(828) 431-4955
*The clinic operates mainly by appointments. Each day limited walk-in appointments are available and is on a first come first served basis*
New patients for healthcare services must be certified by GHCCM’s Client Services Department.