United Way's WeCare program provided over $9 million worth of free medical services to patients

FORT MYERS, Fla. - EntSun -- The WeCare program run by United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades had more than 2,300 pro bono medical encounters with patients in need during 2024.

That was over $9 million in free care for those in need in Lee and Hendry Counties by physicians and medical practices.

WeCare connects qualifying individuals with specialty medical services free of charge through a large network of volunteer providers and healthcare facilities. Nearly 200 individual providers and 20 organizations partner with United Way through the WeCare program. The WeCare program has now started accepting referrals from Glades County with the understanding that the patient be able to get to Lee County for treatment.

An area of great need that was filled in 2024 was Gynecologic Oncology. Dr. Samith Sandadi joined WeCare providing evidence-based, high-quality, personalized care to women with complex gynecologic problems and suspected or diagnosed cancers of the female reproductive system.

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In 2024, over 300 patients aged 16-87 were treated by WeCare providers. The top five individual providers for 2024 were Dr. Tadeu Ambros, Dr. Liliana Bustamante, Dr. Anthony Anfuso, Dr. Graciela Garton and Dr. Samith Sandadi. The top five corporate partners were Lee Health, Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Advocate Radiation Oncology, GenesisCare, and Radiology Regional.

More than 50 medical offices refer patients to the program with the top three being Family Health Centers, Lee Health, and Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute.

WeCare is contracted through the Florida Department of Health, Voluntary Health Care Provider Program (VHCPP). To participate in the program, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Be referred by a medical provider, hospital or specialist.
- Have a severe medical condition that a primary care provider cannot manage.
- Qualify as 300% under the federal poverty limit.
- Have no health insurance.
- Be a Lee, Hendry, or Glades County resident.

For more information about the WeCare program and United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades, please visit UnitedWayLee.org/WeCare.