THE NUMBER of uninsured Rhode Islanders is growing with each report of unemployment in our state. As of Jan. 1, this figure had risen to almost 130,000 and is increasing daily. This can occur because of job loss, a reduction in the number of hours worked, or an employer’s choosing to trim benefits. Nearly half of the uninsured (45 percent) are employed.

What can and should be done?

Rhode Island is blessed with many terrific community health centers. These centers, located throughout the state, are excellent resources for those who are uninsured, or under-insured. Patients are provided with high-quality care and reimbursement comes from the federal government and private health insurers.

One clinic is different from all the rest. The Rhode Island Free Clinic (RIFC). RIFC only treats those who are completely without health insurance. Patients must be between the ages of 19 and 64 and have an income level of no more than 150 percent of the federal poverty level (approximately $27,000 for a family of three). RIFC does not accept any commercial health-insurance reimbursement and receives no federal funds for the payment of medical treatment.

How do we at RIFC manage to pay for the office visits, treatment and follow-up that we provide to our patients? We do so through the generosity of more than 200 volunteers who offer their time and hard work to treat Rhode Island’s most needy residents. Leading Rhode Island businesses provide financial support and in-kind materials, equipment and services to help keep the clinic functioning. And of course, we also rely on the financial generosity of our donors who provide necessary funds to keep our clinic doors open.

In 2009, RIFC is celebrating its 10th year in operation. The idea for the free clinic was conceived by Stephanie Chafee and Dr. Bruce Becker. From humble beginnings in 500 square feet of borrowed space, the clinic has grown to fill the entire third floor of 655 Broad St. A total of seven modern examination rooms are available along with five behavioral-health rooms, a pharmacy and other on-site services. The goal is to provide comprehensive care in one setting.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, RIFC has launched three major initiatives. In January, the pharmacy began dispensing free medications to RIFC patients. Patients can either come to the clinic to fill their prescriptions or have their medications sent to them by mail. The program provides access to 65 of the most commonly prescribed generic drugs. Name-brand drugs are available through the Prescription Assistance Program (PAP).

Also in January, a network of physicians in 17 communities around the state began seeing RIFC patients in their offices. If follow-up services are warranted (such as X-rays, lab work or referral to a specialist), these will be arranged through the Rhode Island Free Clinic. To date, more than 70 primary-care physicians and 25 specialists have generously donated their time to be part of this network.

Later this year, RIFC will be expanding its services with a satellite office in Newport.

The bottom line is this: Although RIFC continues to expand services — it provides access to more than 18 specialties — it needs more physicians and support to keep up with the growing demand of the uninsured needing cost-effective health care.

On the first Thursday of each month, we at RIFC hold a lottery in our parking lot to accept patients who will be seen that evening. In January, we had 26 people show up for approximately 20 openings. Since then, the number turning out for the lottery has tripled (72 in February, 78 in March and 74 in April) and will surely continue to grow.

Our goal is to “lose the lottery.” No one should have to stand in a parking lot waiting for their number to be called to get needed health care.

We can only succeed with your support. If you believe in the concept of providing free health care for those who need these services the most, please join us. Your donation of medical skills and services, your time and your financial support all go a long way toward helping to bring health care to the growing numbers of uninsured in Rhode Island.

Lynne Urbani is the chief executive officer of the Rhode Island Free Clinic.