Resources
Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic is pleased to share resources with you about managing your health and our clinic.
Please browse the information below or contact us directly with questions.
Charleston Cares Blog
Charleston Cares Blog aims to bring you weekly health tips, heart-friendly recipes, and daily living news. You can find us at www.bifmc.org or follow updates on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Tag us using #CharlestonCares or #HIPchs!
Dating Apps & Your Health: Staying Safe in 2026
Online dating has become a common way to meet new people, but it’s important to approach it with both personal safety and sexual health in mind. While dating apps can create meaningful connections, they can also increase risks if boundaries and precautions aren’t in place. In South Carolina, rates of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs)…
Thinking About GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medications? Here’s What to Know
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are helping many people lose weight and improve blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. You may have seen them advertised as an easy way to “jumpstart” weight loss. These medications can be very effective — but it’s important to understand what they are designed to do, and what…
Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic Named a 2025 “Angel” by South Carolina Secretary of State
Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic (BIFMC) has been honored as one of South Carolina’s 2025 “Angels,” a prestigious recognition awarded to nonprofit organizations demonstrating exemplary service and responsible financial stewardship. Secretary of State Mark Hammond announced the honorees on Tuesday, acknowledging 10 charities whose impact and efficiency stand out across the state. “The annual Angel…
From Volunteer to Vital Team Member: A Homegrown Journey at BIFMC
“The community fostered here is really passionate and incredible.” For some, a volunteer experience is a meaningful chapter. For others, it’s the start of a journey. For one Charleston native, two summers of volunteering at Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic (BIFMC) opened the door to a rewarding career of service, language, and community connection. Born…
Wrapped in Care: Project Linus Blankets Bring Warmth and Joy to Clinic Families
At Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic, compassionate care often extends beyond medical treatment. Over the past year, a new collaboration with Project Linus, a national nonprofit that provides handmade blankets to children in need, has added a heartwarming dimension to the Clinic’s mission. The idea began when a drawing class student who volunteers with a…
A New Chapter in Patient Care: BIFMC Opens Its First Dispensing Pharmacy
“I am truly excited to step into the role of Pharmacist in Charge at Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic. It’s an honor to lead our pharmacy efforts and work alongside such dedicated staff and volunteers. I look forward to contributing in meaningful ways to support our growing patient community.” – Mary Kunitzer, PharmD Since 2013,…
How To Do A Self Breast Examination
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and a perfect reason to start a monthly regimen of self breast examinations to detect any abnormalities or changes in the breast tissue. According to The National Cancer Institute, approximately 12.4% of women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life – but due to early intervention…
What Does BIFMC Offer? A Perspective from a Volunteer Physician.
By Pat Kelly, MD “BIFMC delivers profound benefits to both individuals and the broader community. With the services we provide, the clinic helps detect and address health issues before they become severe and costly. … Furthermore, it promotes health equity by ensuring that underserved populations have access to essential care, fostering a healthier, more resilient…
Charleston Cares Newsletter – Spring ’25
Find the latest edition of Charleston Cares here!
How To Quit Smoking
A recent study by the American Cancer Society found that almost half of all cancer deaths were attributed to modifiable risk factors, such as smoking. Smoking cigarettes kills more Americans than alcohol, car accidents, HIV, guns, and illegal drugs combined. While you may already know about all the risks associated with tobacco use, quitting is…
J McLaughlin store at Freshfields to host author for ‘Sip n Shop’ book signing & BIFMC Fundraiser
J McLaughlin store at Freshfields to host author for ‘Sip n Shop’ book signing event Friday, April 18th for benefit of Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic Local author Joseph Bauer will be in the J McLaughlin store at Freshfields to sign his books, including his latest novel Sailing for Grace, released in late 2024 by…
The Benefits of Meditation: A Path to Mindfulness and Well-Being
In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become part of everyday life. Many people are looking for ways to improve their mental and physical well-being, and meditation has emerged as a simple yet powerful practice with countless benefits. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve focus, or enhance overall happiness, meditation can be a…
How You Can Help
Give Your Time
We have many opportunities to volunteer with us, with flexible hours to meet your schedule.
Make a Donation
Your donation goes to immediate work in our clinic, from medical supplies to critical prevention programs.
Fundraise
Learn more about how you can host an event or party to support healthcare in our clinic!