An out-of-work truck driver in his mid-40s was unable to walk unassisted and incapable of climbing into his rig. He had sought help from doctors, but didn’t return because he lacked insurance. But eight months later, he was back at work, consistent with his medications, and able to walk on his own. He had found the help he needed at Madison Hall Health Clinic located in Madison Baptist Church.
“It was a friendly, consistent, open-minded relationship [with him] that made the difference,” says Pastor Greg Gilbreath.
The church’s clinic started in 2015 when Gilbreath was throwing away junk mail and took note of a flyer about training churches to run health clinics. Seeing a need in his rural community, he sent a couple of church members to the training. Soon after, Madison Baptist, which is located in Jackson, Tennessee, dedicated space in their facility for the once-a-month clinic where several volunteer nurses, two nurse practitioners and a pharmacist meet with the public.
Gilbreath says the training opened their eyes that they could do medical missions right there in their community.
Madison Hall Health Clinic, a separate entity from the small church, has its own board of directors. First-time patients fill out paperwork, have their vital signs checked, and meet with one of the practitioners to discuss their concerns. An in-house pharmacy provides common medications.
Through the years the clinic has offered cost-free care to over 100 patients. In addition to medical attention, each patient has an opportunity to meet with volunteers to hear the gospel. Gilbreath says this is the best outreach he has ever been involved with, noting that more than 25 people have prayed to receive Christ.
“The most exciting thing to me is seeing our church members excited about [work] in our community. It’s always great when we have some go overseas, but it’s more exciting to see the same people work regularly at our church.”
