Each month, BIFMC shines a spotlight on one of our many exceptional clinic volunteers. From medical staff to voluntary file clerks, Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic is able to provide a warm, caring and expert primary medical home to hundreds of uninsured patients. The residents and workers of our Lowcountry community are cared for and kept healthy due to the commitment of our volunteers.
Dr. Kateryna Vasilievna Shaforost volunteering at the Royal Bagan Clinic in Myanmar
This month, we celebrate Dr. Kateryna Vasilievna Shaforost! Kateryna assists the Clinic in various administrative roles, always with great compassion for our patients. A former physician in the Ukraine, Kateryna practiced neurology for the Regional Hospital in Poltava, Ukraine, before relocating to the US.
Name: Kateryna Vasilievna Shaforost
Town: Johns Island
Position at BIFMC: administrative volunteer
Years served at the Clinic: 3
How did you learn about BIFMC? Were you actively looking for volunteer opportunities at the time? The location is near our home, and we noticed it while driving past. I was looking for volunteer positions at the time.
Do You Have a Background in Healthcare? In 1987 I graduated from the Poltava (Ukraine) Medical Academy, as a Medical Doctor (Neurologist). Served as a practicing Neurologist for the Regional Hospital in Poltava for 12 years prior to coming to the United States. In 2014 I worked as a Neurologist treating patients and training doctors in the Royal Bagan Clinic in Bagan. Myanmar. Now I am retired.
What is it about BIFMC’s mission that appeals to you personally? I find it fulfilling to help people in need.
How has volunteer work had an impact on your life? Working as a volunteer to aid the uninsured makes me more grateful for all that I have.
Why are the uninsured in our community an important demographic to dedicate your time to? I believe healthcare is human right. Whether people have money to pay for medical care should have nothing to do with whether they receive medical care.
What advice would you give to those considering volunteering their time or donating a gift to the clinic? There is no greater cause than to be able to give people the gift of health.
Thank you, Kateryna, for your dedication to serving the community! We are lucky to have you as a part of our volunteer family!
Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic provides medical care to eligible patients, just like any family practitioner or internist – but it is free. We serve uninsured adults living at or below 200 % of the Federal poverty level who live or work on Johns, Wadmalaw or James Islands. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
More Volunteer Spotlight
Volunteer Spotlight: Kelli Parker
Meet Emma: BIFMC’s AmeriCorps Student Intern!
