A meaningful anniversary

A year ago, Dr. Mohammed Samee took on something some people thought was a little crazy: he opened Mercy to Mankind, a clinic that provides free primary medical care for those who otherwise could not afford it.

“I had volunteered at free clinics in the past, and at Illinois Masonic I saw a large population of patients who did not have insurance or couldn’t access care,” says Dr. Samee. “I would refer them to other free clinics, and those resources are great, but I wasn’t able to follow up and see their care through. My goal was to create a medical home and provide primary care for those who need it the most.”

Inspired by this, Dr. Samee’s passion project soon became a reality. He built Mercy to Mankind from the ground up, but stresses he’s been fortunate to have lots of help along the way.

“People are always willing to help, from furniture and renovations to providing medical care,” says Dr. Samee. “I have a few physicians who volunteer their time, and my family and an army of additional volunteers are instrumental in keeping the clinic up and running.”

Dr. Samee’s mother is a nurse at the clinic, while his dad is registration and his brother handles the technology side of things. His sister is a nurse practitioner who helps triage phone calls.

“I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by a great group of people personally and professionally who have been extremely helpful locating resources and donating their time and expertise,” says Dr. Samee. “Volunteers have helped identify additional community resources, provided guidance on medication assistance and gathered donated equipment and other assets.”

Mercy to Mankind accepts patients who are without insurance and are considered to be 150 percent below the federal poverty level. Currently the clinic operates two days per week, with the potential to expand their schedule as the clinic and its staff continues to grow.

The name of the clinic “Mercy To Mankind” was inspired from the Arabic translation of “Rahmat E Alam.” This was a title of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was sent as a mercy or Rahmat for the universe. He offered the best example of justice, character, humanity, patience, and tolerance for the people.

To learn more about the clinic and its services, visit mercytomankindclinic.com.