LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Many families in the northeast Las Vegas Valley have faced barriers in accessing healthcare, with one significant challenge being pediatric care for uninsured children. However, a new clinic at Bailey Middle School is set to change that.

Pamela Girgis, a pediatric nurse practitioner with UNLV, recognized the need for accessible pediatric care in the community. “80% or more of the kids we see are uninsured,” Girgis said, highlighting the urgent need for a solution.

Thanks to a generous donation from Dr. Gopal and Jeannette Das, the new pediatrician’s office is now located in the heart of the community, at Bailey Middle School. The clinic offers a range of services, including physical exams, sports physicals, immunizations, lab testing, and mental health services.

For families without transportation, the location of the clinic is critical, allowing students to be seen during school hours without requiring parents to leave work. Principal Danielle Duterte expressed her gratitude, saying, “That was the biggest thing we have a high chronic absenteeism rate, and to cut that down we have the option to have students seen here.”

The clinic at Bailey Middle School opened its doors to Hickey Elementary and Sunrise High in March, doubling its foot traffic and now serving up to 5,000 students and their siblings. Parents must give consent before their child is seen, and Girgis follows up with them after the visit to discuss the treatment.

The health clinic at Bailey Middle School accepts walk-ins for students, while Hickey and Sunrise students must have an appointment. The clinic is open every Monday and Wednesday from 8:30 am-12:30 pm, and appointments can be made by calling 702-333-1099.

UNLV also has another free health clinic located at 1720 South, Maryland PKWY, open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. all year round, except on holidays. The clinic is available to all CCSD students and their siblings, ages 3 to 21 years old.