Vincent Tran joined the Salem Health Emergency Department as an ER tech in early 2024. Shortly after that, he decided to volunteer at Salem Free Clinics.

“I've always believed that health care should be available for everyone, and the Free Clinics help bridge the disparity that many low-income, undocumented families face in accessing health care,” said Tran.

Tran helps with intake at the clinics. This includes taking a patient’s history, reviewing medications, obtaining vitals and drawing labs.

Holistic care for the community

“I love volunteering at Salem Free Clinics because it offers a place for patients to get holistic care,” said Tran. “The gratitude that patients express towards the free clinic highlight the pressing need for accessible health care. Many of the patients we see are uninsured and struggle to find primary care providers to help manage their chronic conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension.”

The ER tech said this volunteer experience helps him feel connected to the Salem community.

“Where I find excitement in the fast-paced nature of the emergency department, I find true joy in caring for those who feel lost and uncared for,” said Tran.

Tran said he appreciates that Salem Health employees can collaborate with Salem Free Clinics to ensure that everyone in the community is well cared for and given the opportunity to live healthy lives.

A patient-centered experience

The ER tech said he wants to spread awareness of the work at these clinics to ensure that everyone in the Willamette Valley is aware of this resource.

“The more support that we can bring to Salem Free Clinics, the more accessible we can make medicine for marginalized communities,” he said. “It's important for health care workers to remember that the lives of the patients they care for are very fragile,” he said. “All patients carry with them a lifetime of challenges that contribute to their circumstances.”