Free Health Clinic Available in Somerset

By Barbara Perone

If your medical insurance ran out this month and you live in Somerset County, you may want to visit a free local clinic if you should happen to get sick before you are able to purchase a new health plan.

Since 2003, Zarephath Christian Church has been operating the Zarephath Health Center, located at 595 Weston Canal Road in Somerset. The clinic, staffed by volunteers, was created by two local physicians, a husband and wife team, Drs. Alieta and John Eck.

Frustrated by the inadequacy of the state’s health insurance system, the doctors wanted to provide a clinic where they could use donated funds, equipment, medications, and services to meet the needs of those who are uninsured, or underinsured, and require medical attention.

While the clinic is closed Friday to Sunday, it’s open Monday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

One Tuesday night each month, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., a clinic pediatrician is available to examine children only. To make an appointment for your child, call 732 537 0737.

For further information about how to qualify to receive medical attention at the clinic, send a fax to 732 537 0738, or email ZHCenter@aol.com or visit www.zhcenter.org.

Directions from 287 South

Take Exit 12, turn left onto Weston Canal Road. Travel two miles. Drive past a school building on the left. Look for the Zarephath center sign and make a left into the driveway. Park to the left and enter the clinic, located between two modular buildings.