ORLANDO | Catholic Charities of Central Florida Free Medical and Dental Clinics received the Gold Rating from the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) Quality Standards Program for the second consecutive year.

“This rating, from the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, affirms that our staff and healthcare professionals succeed in providing the highest standard of care possible to the individuals we are privileged to serve,” said Catholic Charities of Central Florida president Deacon Gary Tester. “It is a tremendous affirmation of our clinic teams and serves to assure our donors and supporters that this ministry is truly a blessing to those individuals it serves.”

Evaluation covers patient care, credentialing, quality care measures, clear explanation of administrative policies and responsibilities.

According to NAFC, “These standards allow us to demonstrate the quality care provided to our patients to policymakers, partners, funders and stakeholders. Additionally, the standards assist the NAFC in developing benefits and resources that will help our members enhance the care (clinics) provide to patients.”

Catholic Charities runs six clinics across Marion, Sumter, Lake, and Osceola counties: Lazarus Medical Clinic in Wildwood, Lazarus Dental Clinic in Leesburg, La Guadalupana Medical and Dental Clinics in Ocala, St. Luke Medical Clinic in Eustis, and St. Thomas Aquinas Medical Clinic in St. Cloud.

The mission of the NAFC is to ensure the medically underserved have access to affordable healthcare. To quantify and qualify the care provided at the Free and Charitable Clinic network, the NAFC formalized a set of Quality Standards for member organizations. The rating showcases the quality of care provided at the Catholic Charities’ clinics at the national level.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, May 22, 2025