TCCH News

“Without TCCH, there would be a really big gap in terms of medical services. There is no doubt we would be a much poorer community in terms of health,” according to Vicki Soulé, CEO of TCCH.

Both the Mobile Medical Unit, as well as a Mobile Dental Unit that will be delivered later this spring, were funded through the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA) Health Center Program’s FY 2023 Capital Assistance for Hurricane Response and Recovery Awards.

Access Enhancer: Increases the total number of patients served and the number of patients who receive at least one comprehensive service (mental health, substance abuse, vision, dental, and/or enabling) by at least 5%.

Advancing Health Information Technology (HIIT) For Quality: Meeting all criteria to optimize HIT services that advance telehealth, patient engagement, interoperability, and collection of social determinants of health to increase access to care and advance quality of care. Forty-seven percent centers met this criteria.

Addressing Social Risk Factors: Recognizes health centers that are screening for social risk factors impacting patient health and are increasing access to enabling services.

Patient Centered Medical Home: Achieves PCMH recognition in delivering high-quality, affordable primary care. The PCMH model is patient-centered, culturally appropriate and healthcare team-based, coordinating care across TCCH services. PCMH models have effective chronic disease management, increased patient and provider satisfaction, cost savings, improved quality of care, and increased preventive care.

As a community health center, TCCH is held to extremely high standards of care, higher than private physicians and health organizations. “A major focus of our mission is to provide accessible and affordable care, to those with and without insurance. TCCH continually looks for ways to close the healthcare gaps, be it a specific service, a more accessible way to reach patients or recognizing an impactful social risk factor. These badges prove our efforts to provide high-quality healthcare for all is working,” TCCH CEO Vicki Soulé said.

After completing the session, each family will leave with a grocery bag of delicious recipes, groceries from the food pantry, other supplemental groceries, educational materials, and measuring spoons and cups to help with portion sizes.

“Awareness, education and planning are critical in the prevention of diabetes,” said Colleen Symanski, RN. “Teaching good habits now will pay big dividends down the road. We’re here to show parents how to help their kids stay fit.”

During each 75-minute session, children will engage in a fun, healthy activity and enjoy a small meal provided by TCCH while parents taste test recipes developed by Chef Ed.

Sunrise Rotary President Pam O’Donnell shared, “Sunrise Rotary Club of Vero Beach is all about empowering the families in our community to live their best life possible. We strongly support this program provided to Dodgertown Elementary by TCCH because it will help to educate families on how to prepare nutritious, delicious, and cost-effective food. Sunrise Rotary looks forward to becoming part of the solution to help kids and their parents avoid obesity-related diseases such as diabetes.”

Ninety percent of patients recommend TCCH services and providers. This is no small feat as healthcare programs are abundant and varied, with new services expanding year after year. From women’s health to dental care, TCCH covers the gamete of health related services and they do it well.

TCCH’s most recent milestone is the Vision Program, which began in July 2021 at the Fellsmere location. “The Vision Program is only one example of the exemplary standard of care TCCH provides to meet the needs of the community. We are always analyzing the needs of the community and working to fill gaps in patient care,” TCCH CEO Vicki Soulé said. The Fellsmere staff are multicultural and bilingual, further meeting the needs of the community. Additionally, Hispanic children account for more than a third of visually impaired children.

Furthermore, thanks to a grant from Impact 100 Indian River, plans are in place to expand the program to the Gifford location, another area of extreme need, more central to Indian River County.
Cheri, a Fellsmere resident who receives regular eye exams, recently moved from her past eye doctor when she learned TCCH offers vision services. She states “I switched to TCCH’s Vision Program because I come here for my medical and dental care. It’s easy doing everything in one place and everyone is so nice.”

With a culture of professionalism and excellence, praise is the norm at TCCH; yet it’s TCCH who is taking the time to thank and acknowledge their supporters.

This year, they’re providing care packages for the homeless and agricultural workers of IRC, taking time to individually thank every employee and volunteer, and acknowledging their patients and supporters with tokens of gratitude. Brilliantly making NHWC a fun and happy time, as always, TCCH is going the extra mile. Cheers to our very own Treasure Coast Community Health.

According to statistics from the 2020 United Way ALICE report, 33% of households in IRC earn above the Federal Poverty Level, but not enough for afford basic necessities such as housing, child care, food, transportation and healthcare. It seems only natural that two would create a cooperative agreement to continuously work to reduce barriers to care through a shared belief in healthcare for all.

“A healthy community benefits everyone and having We Care services directly inside our 787 healthcare facility to help coordinate specialty care is an immense benefit to all patients. This strong alliance streamlines the process for those most in need and increases their ability to uphold their medical care plans,” Soulé said.
The We Care Program Office is operating within the TCCH 787 location, 37th Street, Suite E140, less than a mile from Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. Angela Locascio-Kwong, BSN and We Care Patient Advocate and Eligibility and Referral Specialist is actively working with IRC residents and can be reached at 772-562-0123. Prospective We Care patients must first see a TCCH or Whole Family Health Center primary care provider who will then make a referral to Ms. Locascio-Kwong.
“Any organization can refer to We Care. We have an unwavering commitment to improve the overall health of our community and is only possible through the gift of service from our 98 specialty volunteer physicians and their staffs,” Robinson said. The organization is also grateful for the continued support of the IRC Health Department and IRC Hospital District.

About TCCH
TCCH is a nonprofit, providing comprehensive, high-quality health care to more than 26,000 insured, underinsured and uninsured patients. TCCH, Indian River County’s only Federally Qualified Health Center, has eight locations providing medical, vision, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. TCCH offers a sliding fee discount based on household income and family size. For more information, visit tcchinc.org or call 772-257-8224.
About We Care
We Care is a nonprofit, 501 (C) 3 program, founded in 1991, that provides free medical services for uninsured, low income Indian River County residents 18 years and older. This is made possible through our network of dedicated volunteer physicians including cardiologists, gastroenterologists, urologists, oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other health care professionals. Vital services offered by physician volunteers are valued at more than $1 million annually. For more information visit wecareofirc.org.

While a physician can diagnose and treat diabetes, support beyond the provider/patient relationship is instrumental in long term, healthy sustainability with diabetes. “At TCCH, we recognize that your health is going to change. We address the disease distress and fatigue that goes along with living with diabetes. And, diabetes does not stay the same though a person’s life. Your health is going to change. You’re environment is going to change. You’re going to get stressed and distressed and overwhelmed. People need additional resources to be successful,” Symanski said.

According to the CDC, diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S., which does not sound drastic, however, “When you have diabetes, your complications for heart disease, [the leading cause of death], hypertension and stroke, [the fifth cause of death], significantly increase. When you improve the health of people with diabetes, you reduce the comorbidities of the top killers, other than cancer,” Symanski said.

About the ADCES

ADCES is a National Accredited Organization (NAO) for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Accredited programs must meet the 2022 National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support. The standards that are revised every five years by a group of diabetes educators representing both ADCES and the American Diabetes Association and approved by CMS. Programs must maintain compliance with the Standards during the four-year accreditation cycle.

About TCCH

TCCH is a nonprofit, providing comprehensive, high-quality health care to more than 26,000 insured, underinsured and uninsured patients. TCCH, Indian River County’s only Federally Qualified Health Center, has eight locations providing medical, vision, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. TCCH offers a sliding fee discount based on household income and family size. For more information, visit tcchinc.org or call 772-257-8224.

About TCCH Foundation
The TCCH Foundation raises awareness and builds a healthy community by fostering charitable support for TCCH. The TCCH Foundation directs the fundraising and philanthropic activities of the countywide TCCH clinics, purchasing state-of-the art medical equipment, supporting community education initiatives, and promoting health programs. The Foundation is committed to ensuring a healthy future for the people of Indian River County. For more information about the TCCH Foundation, visit www.tcchinc.org or call 772-257-8224.

Currently, no other health care organization in Indian River County is providing funding for early detection, screening, treatment and care for underinsured and uninsured patients.

In 2021, 300 women received potential live-saving services through the TCCH Women’s Preventative Health Services Program. During the same year, TCCH performed a total of 5,800 cervical cancer screenings and 2,875 breast cancer screenings. A full breast diagnosis can cost up to $2,000 and available resources ultimately drive program capacity.

“Being able to offer the women’s health program to our patients is a tremendous gift,” Dr. Valeriano said. “Women contribute so much to so many people, often foregoing their own wellbeing. TCCH is removing barriers to health care. Patients receive compassionate, high-quality treatments, and I’m proud to be part of this initiative.”

About TCCH

TCCH is a nonprofit, providing comprehensive, high-quality health care to insured and uninsured patients. TCCH, Indian River County’s only Federally Qualified Health Center, has eight locations providing medical, vision, dental, behavioral health and pharmacy services. TCCH offers a sliding fee discount. For more information, visit tcchinc.org or call 772-257-8224.

The Moonshot Community Action Network, MCAN, will host a Faces of Early Literacy event during the open house. These events feature pictures of young readers and bring awareness to the Moonshot Moment goal of 90% of kindergarteners reading on grade level by the end of 3rd grade to make Indian River County a leading literacy capital of the nation. Their bookmobile will offer free books during the open house. A healthy child is better able to grow, learn and succeed during each step of life.

At the Gifford health center, Board Certified pediatrician, Stefania Saint-Hilaire, MD works side by side with two medical assistants to care for patients in an efficient manner. While she is attending to one patient, the medical assistants are readying patients, taking labs, administering immunizations and scheduling follow up appointments.

An on-site pharmacy, conveniently located next to the pediatric wing, has most medications ready before families leave the facility. The pharmacy has free and deeply discounted medications to assist all families with affordable prescriptions. Additionally, if a doctor has a question, they can immediately speak directly to the pharmacists.

The Gifford location also offers on-site lab services, behavioral and mental health counseling and, thanks to a grant from Indian River Impact 100, affordable vision services will be available in the near future. This centralized location has ample parking with handicapped spots directly outside the pediatric wing and main entrance.

About TCCH

TCCH offers a unique pediatric healthcare experience for children and families in Indian River County. Within their eight locations, families have access to on-site pharmacies, labs, x-rays, EKGs, vision services, behavioral and mental health support, dental facilities, diabetes support and health navigation services for insurance assistance. This convenient design allows the entire family to receive comprehensive care from providers who choose an inclusive healthcare environment for all socioeconomic levels. TCCH accepts almost all insurance plans and offers a sliding fee discount.

“TCCH has such a good reputation within the community. I had the opportunity to volunteer with TCCH when COVID-19 vaccines first became available. I volunteered on weekends giving vaccines in Gifford and Fellsmere. It was a rewarding experience doing something positive in uncertain times,” Thomason said. Her nursing background, combined with over 20 years working with nonprofits is a perfect combination of skills to bring to the organization.

One of Thomason’s initial goals is to establish a board of directors that can help promote TCCH within the community, and then to increase the donor base over time.

“The scope of services and medical staff are very impressive. Indian River County is very fortunate to have such a comprehensive and affordable healthcare organization,” Thomason added.

In collaboration with Dodgertown Elementary School’s Dental Day, Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH), a partner in the Community Partnership School, provided dental screenings and services on Saturday, December 11. Students and their families also enjoyed free food, face painting, music, STEAM projects, and games.

TCCH dentists and hygienists completed 31 cleanings and varnishes, three extractions, five fillings, and 30 sealants. Sealants are protective seals on top of permanent molars that are used as a preventative measure against cavities and future tooth decay.

TCCH believes that a healthy community is an educated community. Providing access to dental health services early on can help improve a child’s overall health and wellbeing. Removing barriers to health services allows the youth of the community to focus on receiving their education rather than dealing with the disruption of poor oral health.

The Rotary Clubs of IRC* hold an annual Oktoberfest Social to raise funds for polio eradication efforts. Rotary members across the globe have worked to eliminate polio for 35 years and contributed more than $2.1 billion in this time frame. Thanks to member efforts, 3 billion children in 122 countries are free from this paralyzing disease.

This year, the IRC clubs chose to support mental health in addition to polio immunization. Four behavioral health organizations, including TCCH, were presented and voted on by club presidents. TCCH was granted the funds based on their behavioral health case management abilities for those in need of support beyond counseling. These case managers act on a patient’s behalf, connecting them with multiple resources to ensure a better quality of life.

TCCH provides behavioral health services for children, families, and individuals focusing on total wellness. Our team of board certified psychiatrists, board certified mental health nurse practitioners, licensed mental health counselors, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help, whatever the need. In addition to case management, in-person and virtual appointments, in conjunction with outpatient therapy, are available. TCCH is committed to providing affordable behavioral health care and is one of a limited number of practices in Indian River County that accepts children covered by Medicaid insurance.

*The IRC Rotary clubs include Vero Beach Club, Orchid Island Club, Rotary Club of Sebastian, Sunrise Club and Oceanside Club. All clubs are accepting new members.

Pictured: Front row, L-R: Marty Lewis, President, VB Sunrise Rotary; Vicki Soulé, Oceanside Rotary; Tina Nicholson, VB Sunrise Rotary; Pam O’Donnell, VB Sunrise Rotary
Back row, L-R: Linda Scott, VB Sunrise Rotary; Andrea Barkett, President, Oceanside Rotary; Elaine Jones, Assistant District Governor, Oceanside Rotary

The TCCH Women's Preventative Health Service Program pays for mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies and additional testing and services if needed for qualifying Indian River County patients. Currently, no other health care organization in Indian River County is providing funding for early detection, screening, treatment, and care for underinsured patients.

Approximately 300 women receive this potential live-saving service through the TCCH Women’s Preventative Health Services Program each year. A full breast diagnosis can cost up to $2,000 and available resources ultimately drive program capacity. “Many women forgo their own health care to provide for their families, and it’s often due to lack of money for annual exams and screenings. This grant will certainly go to good use for women in need,” TCCH CEO Vicki Soulé said.

Educational components will focus on the importance of A1C tests, individual goals, easy blood glucose testing without fingersticks, tracking progress, handling challenges and celebrating successes. Attendees will learn how to prevent diabetic complications, assistance with the cost of medications and supplies, and ideas and resources to help with diabetes stress and fatigue. Each session will have guest speakers, health and diabetes giveaways, and continuous glucose monitor education. Colleen Symanski, TCCH RN and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist will facilitate the educational courses.

An A1C test helps type 1 and type 2 diabetics measure their average blood sugars for the past two or three months. This test diagnoses diabetes, establishes a baseline A1C level, monitors blood sugar levels and signals how well an individual’s diabetic treatment plan is working.

TCCH diabetes educators and support coaches are always available to help support a healthy lifestyle through this course or through an office appointment.

To register for this course, contact Symanski at 772-257-8224, etc. 1142 or email csymanski@ttchinc.org. Please include your first and last name, a contact phone, if your mobile phone is an Android or iPhone and if you prefer the Oslo of Gifford location.

In early August, TCCH accepted a donation of 12 pallets containing approximately 300,000 facemasks from Stephanie Smith with OTG Liquidation Center in Vero Beach. “We have a long standing relationship with OTG and they realize the importance TCCH plays in the community. Mike and Stephanie are always checking to see if TCCH needs certain items so we can keep operating at our best,” TCCH Director of Operations Steve Hellyer said regarding the donation. Smith added, “We are always happy to help.” This donation allows TCCH to allocate funds toward other important safety items such as gloves, gowns and cleaning supplies.
The timing was perfect. When SDIRC school representatives indicated an increased need for facemasks at a community meeting, Hellyer immediately offered to pay it forward. “We want to make sure that any child or school employee that needs a mask receives one so they are protected during the day,” Hellyer said. Within days, TCCH donated and delivered six pallets, with roughly 150,000 facemasks, to the SCIRC. While the school district has a large amount of masks, COVID surged again, leading to the need for more facemasks. “The help is tremendous. This donation will provide piece of mind because we now know that we have extra masks for students who need them,” SDIRC Chief Financial Officer Scott Bass said. SDIRC will distribute the facemasks according to enrollment at each school.
COVID-19 has uprooted lives, disrupted business and stressed nearly everyone’s mental health. COVID-19 has also brought to light the willingness of people to reach out and care for individuals and organizations in need. TCCH, like so many others, will keep spreading the love.

Eighty-three percent of Dodgertown Elementary’s student population lives below the Federal Poverty Level. Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH) understands that poverty is an extreme condition, affecting the entire family. Children who experience poverty do not always have access to timely healthcare, including annual physicals and immunizations. Parents want the best for their children and sometimes need extra help securing resources.

TCCH joined forces with Dodgertown Elementary, Children’s Home Society of Florida, Indian River School District and Indian River State College to create Dodgertown Elementary, A Community Partnership School — the first of its kind in Indian River County and one of only 20 in the state of Florida. “The resources TCCH can offer – doctors, dentists, optometrists, health navigators and transportation will support better health for children at Dodgertown. This partnership aligns with our mission of healthcare for all so we are very happy to be a part of the solution,” TCCH CEO Vicki Soulé said.

A Community Partnership School increases graduation rate, student achievement, teacher retention, attendance, parent involvement and community support. “We know that children bring more than their book bags to school. If a child’s tooth is hurting or they can’t see, then they are not developing at their full potential. They have barriers that they are unable to talk about or they have to go through. If there’s a need, you can’t learn,” Director of Dodgertown, A Community Partnership School, Gerrod Miller, who started with the program in February of 2021, said.

The on-campus “hub” provides students with multiple opportunities for leadership, cultural enrichment, after schools activates, tutoring and mentoring. “Studies show that many children in poverty struggle academically and are five times more likely to drop out of high school, so in elementary we are able to catch them when they are very young,” Miller said. Students who need vision, dental, behavioral and medical health care can be transported to TCCH locations. “TCCH has processes in place to reduce barriers to care for students and families, increasing the amount of ‘butts in chairs’ learning time. This includes telehealth, with a link for parents, and face to face visits which are essential to early grade success,” Soulé said. There is also a nonperishable on-site food pantry and clothes closet providing uniforms, shoes, socks and underwear. English as a second language courses and GED programs are available through Indian River State College for parents.

Along with the five core partners, other organizations also contribute to the success of these children, including Gifford Youth Achievement Center, Crossover Mission, Moonshot Moment, Treasure Coast Food Bank, The United Way, United Against Poverty, First Presbyterian Church in Vero Beach and Lakes at Waterway Village.

As of February 2020, Miller and his team have served 23 families and 38 students. If you want to donate, stop in at the Dodgertown Elementary main office, contact Earldesha Crosdale, Family and Community Engagement Coordinator, at 772-469-6677 or earldesha.crosdale@chsfl.orgor Miller at 772-480-4456 or gerrod.miller@chsfl.org. You can reach TCCH Wellness Coordinator LaDonna Corbin at lcorbin@tcchinc.org.

Specific items you can donate include:
• Uniforms, shoes, belts, socks and underwear
• School supplies, book bags and books
• Nonperishable food and UAP grocery vouchers

Photo provided by Dodgertown Elementary

In order to focus on providing vaccines and keeping kids in school as much as possible, and with the large amount of available testing locations, TCCH will NOT provide Adult COVID-19 testing. Because Florida is a high transmission area, CVS, MedExpress, Walgreens and Quest at the Neighborhood Walmart offer free COVID-19 tests.

COVID-19 Vaccinations
• United Against Poverty (UAP), 1400 27th St., Vero Beach, FL
• Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am – 1 pm
• Pfizer (age 12+), Moderna (age 18+) and J&J (age 18+)
• Walk-ins welcome
• A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors age 12-17

COVID-19 Testing
• Indian River County students
• Sent home with symptoms and a letter from the school
• TCCH’s eight medical offices in Fellsmere, Sebastian and Vero Beach
• Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 2 – 4 pm, Rapid Test
• Thursday and Friday, 2 – 4 pm, PCR test
• Appointments required, call 772-257-8224
• A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors age 12-17

“I am pleased to welcome our newest board members. Their expertise and guidance in finance, fundraising, leadership and customer service will be valuable tools as TCCH continues to provide our patients the most comprehensive and affordable primary care in Indian River County. They believe in our mission and will be strong voices in safeguarding healthcare for all,” TCCH Board Chairperson Elisa Sielinski said.

TCCH is a Federally Qualified Health Center, which means at least 51% of an FQHC’s Board members must use TCCH services. The volunteer Board meets monthly and it is responsible for a variety of areas, including:

• Legal and fiduciary oversight for TCCH operations and grants
• Strategic planning and evaluation of progress
• Approve Annual Budget & Grant Application
• Full authority over all aspects of TCCH operations

Brenda Bradley has 22 years of banking experience, specializing in internal audit, operations and customer service. She also spent 21 years at the Indian River County Tax Collector’s Office as the Bankruptcy and Collections Supervisor and the Chief of Staff/Director of Operations. Bradley is actively involved in a variety of local service groups and fundraising efforts, and received multiple professional achievement and community awards.

Tina Nicholson has 32 years in the banking industry includes developing business opportunities, supervising and coaching team members at various levels and sales strategy. She is a board member on numerous community service groups sharing her extensive leadership and financial experience.

Reverend William Shelly served in the United States Army, retired from the United States Post Office after 25 years of service and is now in his eleventh year as a Pastor. He has raised funds for local baseball teams and sport fields, sidewalks for children to safety walk to school and serves on a diverse group of local and civic-minded organizations. He has received numerous awards for his efforts in economic development and community service.

Elisa Sielinski, Migdalia Rodriguez-McDonald, Cheryl Michel, Vera Smith, Revis “Buddy” Akers, Wilfred Hart, Debra Jackson Hester, Francisco Magna, Judi Miller, Jim Parla, Ed. D. and Ernestine Webb Williams are returning board members.

Visit http://verobeachflash.com/ to subscribe to the Vero Beach Flash newsletter.

Seventy-five volunteers gave their time scheduling appointments, answering questions and quelling fears in the call center. At vaccination sites, they assisted with paperwork and traffic, verified I.D.s and observed people after the shot. Their service allowed TCCH professional staff to administer vaccines while other staff continued aiding patients in the health centers.
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While volunteers filled new responsibilities, paid staff took on a tremendous amount of extra work to make COVID-19 testing and vaccination events possible. Many worked 60-70 hours in normal 40-hour shifts. They gave time setting up and tearing down events. Managers oversaw health centers via phone and they sacrificed family time.
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The hard work paid off. To date, 15,000 people received 23,500 vaccines through TCCH.
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Director of Operations Steve Hellyer said if he had to go through this experience again, he would go with the exact same team. "I want warriors. Everybody wants to be a warrior until it's time to do warrior stuff and then they get scared. The warriors are the ones I want to have my back." www.tcchinc.org

TCCH serves 25,000 individual patients at eight clinical locations, so moving employees from patient care to administering shots was not an option. TCCH CEO Vicki Soulé asked Judi Miller, TCCH Board Member and former CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters, for help. The initial group of nine volunteers quickly expanded to 75 with more on a wait list.

COVID-19 vaccinations are provided free of charge to health centers by the state and federal government. TCCH waives the allowed administration fee so that everyone has the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and to maintain their mission of healthcare for all.

TCCH volunteers have contributed 4,006 hours, valued at $27.20 per hour, for an economic impact of $108,963.20. “I can’t thank our volunteers enough. While we can calculate what they are worth monetarily, their commitment to our patients is immeasurable,” Soulé said.

Volunteers work with the call center and at vaccination events. The call center schedules appointments and returns messages. Some days volunteers fielded over 1,700 calls per day. Event volunteers handle paper work, check I.D.s, control traffic and help in the observation area. Each week Miller filled up to 30 call center shifts and 30 or more vaccination event shifts.

“All of our volunteers felt the critical need for this vaccination to get out and they saw a role in helping with that process. One hundred percent say they get more out of volunteering than they ever give,” Miller said.

Cathy Stevenson shared her talents in streamlining and automating the volunteer sign-up schedule, in addition to working in the call center and at events. “It’s been very rewarding and I will miss it when I return north,” Stevenson said.

TCCH volunteer John Grossweiler, feels he is helping fight a war against the pandemic and adding purpose to life. His roles include traffic control and the observation area. “Everybody is just so intensely dedicated to the project,” he said. Grossweiler describes his experience as refreshing and enjoys see people coming together to help others.

Hope Woodhouse brought her mom to be vaccinated and asked about volunteering. She too saw the pandemic as a war. Because she would be working closely with patients, Hope, as with all volunteers, received the COVID-19 vaccine, “I didn’t expect to get the vaccine. I felt I had to pay it back.”

“Our volunteers didn’t know much about TCCH to begin with which is interesting. It has introduced our community health center to the community in a very personal, engaged way, which you just can’t beat,” Miller said. TCCH staff and volunteers were able to know Indian River County in a new way. They humbly accepted patients’ gratitude. They saw rich and poor. They helped fellow human beings from all walks of life, each desiring hope for the future.

This year, TCCH is encouraging everyone to pay it forward to benefit their mission of healthcare for all. Duck adoptions and event sponsorship proceeds assist people who need help paying for their health care. This includes men and women, young and old, uninsured and insured. When you pay it forward, you show kindness, you give hope, you save lives.

Fifty percent of Indian River County residents live in or near poverty. Imagine the amount of good that can come from 5,000 duck adoptions and unlimited sponsorships. Consider adopting ducks for your friends and neighbors as an additional way to pay it forward.

What can a duck do?

• $20 flu shot
• $25 well-child visit
• $50 one mental health visit
• $100 screening mammogram
• $110 pediatric dental exam and cleaning
• $150 adult dental exam and cleaning
• $200 adult annual physical
• $300 mental health plan
• $600 full set of dentures
• $1,000 insulin for one month

A variety of adoption packages and sponsorships are available for at www.thegreatduckderby.com or, call Dennis Bartholomew, TCCH Director of Business Development, at 772-571-7985 for more information.

Faizan Zaidi has been recording his podcast "Infectious — Your Guide to Life During the Coronavirus" for more than a year and decided to team up with the Gifford Youth Achievement Center and Treasure Coast Community Health to arrange availability of free COVID-19 vaccinations during the event June 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Gifford Park adjacent to the youth center.

Visit https://www.tcpalm.com/ to read more.

The Dyer Difference Award was created to help build a strong and caring community and to recognize nonprofit organizations who mission is to help the communities in which the Dyer dealerships are located. “We want to make an impact in the community and try to help everyone. [TCCH’s Duck Derby] is for medical assistance and this is our way to help kids and the community in need,” Ilaina Lutz, Dyer public relations, said.

The Great Duck Derby raises funds for the TCCH Foundation with proceeds ensuring the health of Indian River County. The Foundation supports TCCH with state-of-the art medical equipment, supporting community education initiatives, promoting health programs and assisting patients with financial needs. Dyer Chevrolet has pledged to partner with TCCH in an upcoming Duck Derby contest – stay tuned for more details.

TCCH CEO Vicki Soule' and Business Development Director Dennis Bartholomew accept the Dyer Difference Award. L-R: Carl Fountain, Jonathan Hardie, Vicki Soule' Ben Williams, Dennis Bartholomew, Wayne Borchardt

Due to tremendous growth over the past 10 years, TCCH has expanded to nine locations, eight medical, including three dental and one administrative. In order to keep costs under control and still provide exceptional, affordable patient care, the ability to transport medical equipment and supplies, along with maintenance equipment from location to location is critical. The van will also transport supplies for community health fairs and outreach programs.

The TCCH dental program for local elementary schools is an excellent example of an outreach program that benefits from a maintenance van. TCCH dental technicians travel to the schools with the necessary equipment and provide dental screenings, sealants and fluoride treatments to third and fifth grade students.

The ability to maintain facilities and transport medical equipment efficiently supports the TCCH mission of healthcare for all.

TCCH is a one-stop medical facility for primary medical, dental and behavioral healthcare. The partnership between TCCH and Freedom Health allows qualifying Indian River County residents additional primary health care options at eight convenient locations, including waving the Medicare deductible.

TCCH is committed to delivering exceptional primary care and support services to educate and promote positive lifestyles, eliminate healthcare disparities and improve the quality of life in Indian River County. Working with Freedom Health simply means TCCH can offer more services to more people and continue to promote our mission of Healthcare for all.

The TCCH Women's Preventative Health Service Program pays for pap smears, mammogram, diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsy and additional testing and services if needed for qualifying Indian River County patients. Currently, no other health care organization in Indian River County is providing funding for early detection, screening, treatment, and care for underinsured and uninsured patients.

A cancer diagnosis, especially a breast or cervical cancer diagnosis, can strike fear in any woman. Behind heart disease, cancer is the second leading cause of death in women in the US. TCCH recognizes the risks associated with non-compliance and realizes that a woman, in most cases, will defer her own health care in order to provide for her children. Deferring care could simply mean not having the money for an annual well-woman exam, pap screen, a baseline mammogram, or follow-up after an exam. It is for this reason that TCCH created its own Women's Preventative Health Services program.

The TCCH Healthcare Home model requires providers ask patients, even if not seen for a well-women exam, the date of their last mammogram and pap smear. Women, whose routine preventive care is not up to date due to financial concerns, are referred to a Health Navigator. Program activities start with determining a woman's eligibility to receive program services. If eligible, patients are educated and counseled on the importance of and receive a screening appointment. If necessary, further diagnostic testing is provided until a diagnosis can be determined.

Approximately 300 women can receive this potential live-saving service through the TCCH Women’s Preventative Health Services Program. A full breast diagnosis can cost up to $2,000 and available resources ultimately drive program capacity; therefore, TCCH carries a wait list of names while securing funding.

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The TCCH Foundation raises awareness and builds a healthy community by fostering charitable support for TCCH. The TCCH Foundation directs the fundraising and philanthropic activities of the countywide TCCH clinics, purchasing state-of-the art medical equipment, supporting community education initiatives, and promoting health programs. The Foundation is committed to ensuring a healthy future for the people of Indian River County.

As CEO, Soulé oversees eight clinical locations and best medical practices to serve people of all ages and socioeconomic groups. She is a well know defender of affordable, accessible, and comprehensive health care for all. In fact, Soulé’s influence in the health care industry stretches beyond Indian River County to state and national levels as the voluntary Chair of the Florida Association of Community Health Centers (FACHC) Board of Directors.

FACHC is a nonprofit, 45 member driven association of community health centers (CHCs) in Florida. FACHC’s main function is to educate, not lobby, legislature on the impact of bills and rules they are considering that affect CHCs. Each state then has representation and advocacy through the National Association of Community Health Centers.

A main benefit of FACHC is, “CHCs don’t have to constantly reinvent the wheel. We can share good ideas, best practices, things that aren’t going well, and most especially we can come together with common interests and concerns to make changes, not individually, but as a group of service providers within the state,” Soulé said. This membership, in turn, provides Indian River County with credible, timely and useful information on local, state, and national levels.
CHC origins date back to 1965 as part of President Johnson’s Office of Economic Opportunity to fight poverty and improve the health care of underserved populations. “Community Health Centers were modeled from African tribes. It takes a village to raise a child. It’s not an individual effort. [CHCs] have the same philosophy, that as a team we will take care of the healthcare needs of those least likely to get it,” Soulé said.

All CHCs carry the same mission: to improve access to quality health services by bringing together agencies, legislators, and key persons able to affect healthcare services. “How each one carries out this mission varies from center to center because the whole premise of a community health center is responding to local needs,” Soulé said. All CHCs deliver medical, dental, and behavioral health care, yet some may specialize in necessary local services such as pregnancy or in-house pharmacies.

What’s the key take away for Indian River County residents? TCCH is the only CHC in Indian River County. As a CHC, the majority of individuals serving on the Board of Directors must be health center patients representing the population served. This means Soulé and the TCCH Board are not only your friends and neighbors — they are your healthcare champions. “Our Board always says, ‘you can’t judge a book by it’s cover.’ There are plenty of people who appear to have the wherewithal to go to private practice and don’t or can’t,” Soulé said.

The most important and differentiating factor about CHCs is, “We elevate all of our techniques and processes to the highest level in healthcare for all so everyone, regardless, and it’s not just regardless if you’re poor. It is regardless of wherever you are in your life: young, old, rich, poor, black, white, or purple. You can feel welcome, and it’s not a question of well you’re lucky you’re getting anything. We’re going to give you top-notch service regardless,” Soulé said.

Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH) held COVID-19 vaccination events at Regency Park, The Salvation Army and TCCH’s 787 Medical Office on March 13, 2021. These events targeted 262 underserved individuals and those meeting Governor DeSantis’ mandates.

Jason Frandsen, Executive Director of Regency Park, and Kayla Moore, Salvation Army Program Coordinator of Social Services, point to safety, depression and anxiety as reasons they joined forces with TCCH. “[This event is] a huge sense of relief and assurance that they are finally getting the vaccine so they can be protected during this pandemic. We’re excited to return back to normal and get our residents out and enjoying their time here,” Jason said. For Kayla, vaccinations mean a return of volunteers, “[Our volunteers] are thrilled to be back which mean we can accomplish more when we have more people here to help.”

It is true that safety, depression and anxiety are very real reasons to be vaccinated. However, it is ultimately an end to isolation and a return to loved ones that motivates most of us to stand in line for a shot in the arm.

Anticipation and hope were in abundance as people, some who have not seen their loved ones in over a year, received a vaccine. Many have isolated themselves completely, other than the bare necessities, from family and friends. The vaccine will provide Jose face-to-face contact with children and grandchildren that he is longing to see. The majority of Jose’s large family lives in Florida yet their main contact is through Zoom – it is just not the same. He feels fantastic about getting the vaccine, and said, “The amount of stress of hearing about people dying every day, it gets to you. You get very depressed. Is it my turn coming next? I’ll still wear my mask. That’s not a problem with me because it protects me and the other person too.”

Carmen and Emily are Barbara’s caretakers. All three have isolated as much as possible for Barbara’s health. Barbara has not seen her three children who live out of state during the entire pandemic. Fear of infecting their mom keeps them at bay. Carmen hurries through grocery shopping during off hours to avoid crowds. To keep Barbara safe, Emily also foregoes seeing family and keeps her children isolated as much as possible. “We all stay at home and try to find things to do and not go out. It’s hard on my kids. They go crazy,” Emily said. All three agree they will remain vigilant with masks and social distancing while eagerly expanding their social lives

Paul and his daughter Emily received shots to protect Emily’s grandmother; they both act as her caretakers. Paul has isolated himself for a year to shield his love ones, “There will definitely be some relief there. That’s what I’m looking forward to.” Emily, relieved to protect herself and the seniors she provides direct care for, is most looking forward to her grandma and daughter being able to spending time together. “It will be nice for me to bring [my daughter] to the park to play with her great granddaughter or take her to get ice cream because she hasn’t been able to get out at all in the last year,” Emily said, which also means brighter days with her grandmother’s mental health.

For some, like Constance, daily life will continue as normal with a promise to see loved ones living out of reach. Since the pandemic started, she still ran errands and saw a select group of local, quarantined friends. However, travel beyond Vero Beach kept Constance from seeing her son in Tampa and sister in Texas. After her second shot on April 9, Constance is planning to see family, “I’ve been sending [my sister] cards and letters and gifts. I haven’t seen her in a year. I will also be able to see my son for his birthday on April 21.”

And, with all things new, some individuals would rather opt-out. Daniel, an 88-year-old Marine veteran, did not want the vaccination. “I’ve spent many years in the Marine Corp. I don’t need a shot,” he said. His wife, Patricia had open-heart surgery within the last year, which meant extreme isolation. Their daughter, Norah, who dislikes shots of all kinds, recently became Patricia’s full time caregiver. All three received the shot. For Patricia, this means a return to gathering with family and friends. Norah will remain cautious but knows, “we are probably safer now.” And Daniel… he was vaccinated because he loves his wife. “I’m very protective of her,” he said.

It is critical that healthcare organizations continue to form community partnerships to best serve those who are especially vulnerable to COVID-19. As a result, everyone feels safer and that is what matters. When safety replaces fear, lives start to become normal again, and that is why TCCH’s mission of Healthcare For All is so important.

Patricia and her son Sebastien arrived at Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH) Fellsmere dental location as a walk-in emergency to fix his broken molar. While checking in Sebastien, Patricia overheard another mother in distress over her insurance not verifying the child on the policy. The mother could not afford to self-pay for her daughter’s appointment, so without hesitating, Patricia extended a random act of kindness and paid the fee. “I immediately felt inclined to offer my help because I could see that this girl's mother was concerned about her child's well-being, but felt unable to get her seen without the help of her insurance.”

Patricia’s offer was welcomed with grace and the unique strength to accept help for a child. “I believe that women really need to remain united as fellow nurturers and we should help each other at any time and in any way we are able. We all need support from each other.”

Ultimately, the insurance issued was resolved and the company did in fact, cover the child. Patricia was touched by the generosity of the mother as she quickly made sure the fee was refunded. After all, one good deed deserves another.

Patricia regularly treats people as she’d like to be treated, and works random acts of kindness into her daily life by simply smiling at people or giving compliments. “I believe we all receive many more random acts of kindness than we may realize every day. There are people who work daily to keep our communities safe, who respond to emergencies, who teach our children. These people never ask for recognition, but continue to work every day to provide all of us with a better quality of life. I don't think we should take any of these things for granted.” Patricia does hope she can inspire her sons to give when they can.

We’re sure this won’t be Patricia’s last random act of kindness.

Kenneth traveled the world as an Air Force security forces specialist, retiring at Patrick Air Force base. After retirement, Kenneth found a second career with Child Protective Services as a child protective investigator, where he met and then married, Susan. Kenneth investigated abuse reports and if necessary, Susan worked with the families to keep the children safe. “I didn’t enjoy the work but I got great satisfaction out of the work and really helped people,” Kenneth said.

Though his work with the Air Force and Child Protective Services, Kenneth has been busy protecting people his entire life, so when COVID hit, he and Susan’s life changed dramatically.

“We’ve pretty much been hermits since April,” Kenneth said of their current social situation. He and Susan rarely venture out of the house, missing family holidays, reunions, and funerals. On occasion, they see close friends under the scrutiny of distance and masks. When the time arrived to get their first COVID-19 vaccination on February 4 from Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH), they did not hesitate.

“I want to live. I don’t know how else to say it,” Kenneth said, explaining why he and Susan were desperate to get their first vaccination. “We didn’t know what to expect but the [vaccination] system was very well organized. We got through, start to finish, within one hour and that included the 15-minute [observation] time. That was amazing to me,” Kenneth said. The couple experienced minor side effects other than a little arm pain at the injection site and a slight headache; the next day both were back to normal. “It was absolutely no different or worse than a routine flu shot,” Kenneth said.

While they await their second shot, Kenneth is looking forward to a more ordinary future, “We’re still going to use masks and social distance and be more cautious around crowds, but we’re looking forward to more of a somewhat normal life.”

Kenneth offers this advice to those still searching for a vaccine slot, “I found out when I was working that the best say to get things done is through networking.” Use community groups on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, in addition to sharing information with your friends and neighbors.

TCCH is actively involved in COVID-19 vaccination events with Indian River County, Gifford Youth Achievement Center, United Against Poverty, and The Up Center, in addition to providing vaccinations to TCCH patients. As of February 8, 2021, TCCH has given 3,963 potentially life-saving vaccinations to Indian River County residents. TCCH extends our thanks to Indian River County for allowing us to the use the fairgrounds, Intergenerational Center, and Richard Bird South Regional Park, and Operation Hope in Fellsmere for allowing us to use their location.

Anders Taranger, a retired Marine and Air Force veteran, rides his bike every day so he paired exercise with his shot. “I spent 26 years in the military and I’ve been vaccinated against everything. I was delighted to get the shot and thankful.” Helen Cortez and Jennie Feathers arrived via the St. Francis Manor of Vero Beach bus. Cortez said, “I decided to have the shot because I don’t want my family to worry about me since I live by myself. It will give them peace of mind that I’m safe.” Feathers, who claimed mosquito bites felt worse than the shot, said, “I’m ecstatic [the vaccine] is available and that TCCH is doing this. You’re wonderful.”

Nekita Rolle, TCCH licensed practical nurse and clinical care coordinator, climbed a few steps to administered the vaccine to a semi-truck driver, “I thought it was cool because we’ve never seen a semi at a vaccination event so that was a little different but I didn’t have a problem with it. He was very nice.”

Snowballs –New Orleans Style owner Brad Cadiere even brought lunch for the crew. “I was by Gifford [the past] weekend and saw TCCH in motion and was impressed because I was watching other vaccinations on TV and it wasn’t all good news. I was so impressed. They work hard. I know your job didn’t just start that weekend.”

Treasure Coast Community Health provided their patients with 462 first dose COVID-19 vaccinations on January 28 at the Intergenerational Center, 352 first doses on January 30 at Operation Hope, and 465 second doses on January 31 at the Indian River County fairgrounds. The staff is working overtime to keep Indian River County safe and healthy, fulfilling our mission of health care for all.

Part of my optimism comes from the professionalism the Treasure Coast Community Health (TCCH) team exhibited with protestors outside of the Indian River County fairgrounds during the January 2 COVID-19 vaccinations. Their performance was TOP NOTCH! Despite the protests, staff and those in line continued in a safe and orderly manner.

The amazing public comments, in the January 7 TC Palm article by Laurence Reisman, was exactly what TCCH deserves! The team members of TCCH deserve high praise for all the hard work performed on a daily basis, so to receive this admiration during the pandemic is beyond words.

This commitment to the health of the community is why I dedicate so much of my time serving as a TCCH Board Member. The qualities the TCCH team has been exhibiting since March of last year is a unique selflessness. I am so incredibly proud to serve as a Board Member and excited to see what the future holds for TCCH. This group of individuals has my sincerest gratitude and admiration.

Elisa Sielinski
Treasure Coast Community Health Board Member

JICSL has graciously benefited the TCCH Women’s Health Fund with $195,000 since 2013. The grants provide free or low cost mammograms and cervical cancer screenings for women at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level; 250 mammograms and cervical screenings were provided in 2020.

“Our members are parents and grandparents, and understand mothers will often forego their own health and wellness before their kids. We were troubled last year when, at a site visit, we learned the grant funding runs out before the end of the year,” explains Sarah Jane Moore, JICSL Co-Chair.

Moore is proud to be part of the JISCL because, “It’s a pleasure to be involved and meet so many amazing, talented, creative, and experienced people within the board, partners, volunteers, and organizations we fund.”

This all-in-one pediatric immobilizer safely positions infants and children for a clearer x-ray without complications. Less technical difficulties means fewer retakes and less exposure to radiation. The Pigg-O-Stat also relieves x-ray technicians from immobilizing a child themselves. This technology helps fill TCCH’s vision to provide patient centered care in a technologically advanced and compassionate environment.

For the past seven years, the Donaldson’s have organized the Stuff A Boat Food Drive in support of the Roseland Ecumenical Food Pantry located in the Roseland United Methodist Church. The Donaldson’s chose this food pantry because their son attended preschool at the church. Amy explained their family developed a very close relationship with the school and food bank, “There were times I walked into the food pantry and there was no food. It was heart wrenching.”

Collaborating with Treasure Coast Community Health and Treasure Coast Marina, the Donaldsons collected 800+ pounds of food this year that will go toward providing more than 25,000 meals to Treasure Coast families.

Treasure Coast Community Health employees donated food from their eight Indian River County locations, and Treasure Coast Marina held a Christmas party for children with a food donation or unwrapped gift as an entry fee. Both groups have happily contributed to the Stuff A Boat Food Drive for multiple years.

These three organizations have developed their own close relationship through feeding individuals in need and showing the true meaning of holiday spirit.

The Great Duck Derby was held as a virtual 2020 event on Facebook Live. Adoptions were down with many of our business partners struggling to stay open. However, individual community members came through and showed great support under the circumstances. We gained new friends in the Vero Beach Life Guard Association and others who adopted ducks for the first time, including some of our winners.

The best thing about our 2020 “The Great Duck Derby” winners is they kept giving back! Not only did they adopt ducks, but first place winner Kathryn Hensley and second place winner Steve Schwartz gave their winnings back to TCCH, and third place winner Kathy Faux is sharing with a friend. Our hearts are full.

What TCCH does in providing health care for those that are most in need is near and dear to my heart. It’s the right thing to do. — Hensley

I bought my ticket because I wanted to support TCCH. Their mission is so important in helping residents of our community get and stay healthy. —Schwartz

Adopting a duck was a cute idea and a nice way to support a local organization. — Faux

Visit www.TheGreatDuckDerby.com to adopt your duck online!

Sandy Stevens, MBA, FSU Student Support Coordinator, presented Khawaja with the award in recognition of outstanding service in furthering FSU College of Medicine’s mission to educate and develop exemplary physicians who practice patient-centered health care, discover and advance knowledge, and are responsible to community needs, especially through service to elder, rural, minority, and underserved populations.

Khawaja humbly accepted the award, saying, “I have always enjoyed academic medicine and love training the next generation of physicians. The goal is for students to go out and serve underserved and rural communities.”

For 11 years, Khawaja has improved health care for children and families in Indian River County and cultivated future physicians. Her positive impact in eliminating health care disparities in her community while instilling these values in her medical students is immeasurable.

The FSU College of Medicine mission statement closely resembles that of TCCH’s mission to provide integrated and comprehensive medical, dental, mental health, and substance abuse services to all people. Additional services that remove barriers to care include prescription assistance, translation services, social service referrals for food and housing, Medicaid eligibility and enrollment, and assistance understanding the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace.