Lifesaving Resources Through St. Mary’s Clinic

The resources provided through Ofelia Gutierrez, CHRISTUS St. Mary’s Clinic patient navigator, are often lifesaving. For the last three years, Gutierrez has guided patients and given them hope when none could be found.

A patient of Dr. Sydney Boule came to the clinic with a visible mass in her neck, and upon evaluation, Boule recommended an ultrasound. Not having insurance to cover the care, Boule referred the patient to Gutierrez. In order to continue her treatment, the patient needed to apply for a Gold Card through the Harris County Indigent Healthcare Program.

“It’s a tedious process, and everyone’s situation is different,” said Gutierrez. “We were finding that patients were struggling to access Gold Card benefits, known as, The Harris Health System Financial Assistance Program, because certain eligibility documents needed to be notarized. Outside notaries were charging up to $150.” Seeing the need, Gutierrez stepped up and went through the notary process.

After the Gold Card was approved, the patient underwent an ultrasound and biopsy which confirmed a diagnosis of thyroid cancer. Following her treatment, she came back for a visit with Dr. Boule. She was crying happy tears showing everyone her scar. Her thyroid cancer was cured, and she continues to receive follow-up oncology services via the Harris Health System’s Patient Financial Assistance Program.”