Frequently Asked Questions
For Volunteers
Where are you operating?
Currently the TAP-IN program is providing volunteer opportunities in the states of Virginia and North Carolina, in partnership with the VA and NC free clinic associations. Beginning in Spring 2008 we will extend our program to the Atlanta and Houston areas, and in Fall 2008 to the Cleveland area. Within six years, TAP-IN hopes to be active in 25 states.
What kind of volunteers are you looking for?
Our recruitment is focused on seasoned professionals age 55 + to meet the expressed needs of our participating clinics. In general we are looking for qualified generalist and specialist physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, mental health counselors, and social workers.
Am I qualified?
Here are the guidelines for retired clinicians volunteering in free clinics. Similar standards are required for all health professionals.
- Have an active license to practice in the state, or be eligible for conversion from "inactive" to "active" status, or be eligible for a special volunteer license.
- Be eligible for malpractice coverage.
- Have never been convicted of a felony.
- Have not been away from active clinical practice for more than 3 years.
- Have clinical experience that matches the needs of free clinic patients, as determined by the clinic medical director or other applicable clinical leader.
- Be open to peer review and quality assurance.
I don't live in your operating area. Can I still volunteer?
We encourage you to register even if we cannot refer you to a free clinic in a state in which we are currently operating. There are nearly 1,200 free clinics in 50 states and the District of Columbia providing care to the uninsured. For further information on Free Clinics around the country, we would refer you to the National Association of Free Clinics at www.freeclinics.us. Or you can call us at 877-605-3250 and we will help you find a volunteer opportunity near you.
What about malpractice protection?
All TAP-IN participating clinics will facilitate malpractice protection for any volunteer recruited by the TAP-IN program whom they decide to engage in active volunteer service. Virginia clinics offer coverage through the state's "Good Samaritan" law, which is administered by the state Division of Risk Management. North Carolina clinics offer coverage through low-cost private insurance (Medical Mutual) and/or the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Georgia clinics offer coverage through the Georgia Volunteer Health Care Program administered by the Georgia Department of Community Health. Ohio clinics offer coverage through state-reimbursed private insurance or the FTCA. Texas clinics provide coverage through the FTCA. Click here for more detailed information on FTCA.
What about licensure?
All TAP-IN participating clinics require their volunteers to be currently licensed to practice in that state. Both North Carolina and Virginia have limited volunteer licenses to facilitate volunteering in Free Clinics. For more information about licensure requirements in your state, please contact us at 877-605-3250 or info@tap-in.org.
Do Free Clinics provide access to specialists, lab, and imaging studies?
Yes, the great majority of free clinics partner with local hospitals and/or lab companies to obtain lab testing and diagnostic procedures of various kinds at little or no charge.
For Clinics
Does TAP-IN charge free clinics for participating in its program?
The TAP-IN program is offered free to participating/enrolled clinics.
I am already a member clinic. Where do I go?
You can log in the TAP-IN website to view your volunteers and update your profile by clicking here.
My clinic is not located in your present operating area. What can I do?
We would appreciate having your information on file so we can contact you if and when our program comes to your state. Please click here to give us your information.
What other services does TAP-IN offer?
Technical assistance and consultation provided by TAP-IN Volunteer Engagement Specialist
Reimbursement for AMA primary source credentialing of physician volunteers recruited by TAP-IN
Opportunity to participate in free training for developing and implementing disease management or chronic care programs using interdisciplinary teams of clinicians
Access to Free Clinic specific continuing education provided and/or sponsored by TAP-IN
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