Nathan, a 64-year-old lifelong Clearwater resident, went nearly three decades without seeing a doctor.
He had no health insurance. The jobs he worked never offered it. So he skipped checkups, ignored aches and put off care until his mental health started to unravel and friends urged him to get help.
He walked into the Clearwater Free Clinic on Court Street, the same building he remembered biking past as a kid.
"I hadn't been to a doctor in 25, maybe 28 years," Nathan said in a patient profile the clinic published Sept. 1. His name was changed by the clinic to protect his privacy.
Staff sent him for X-rays that revealed arthritis and evaluated skin concerns that had worried him after years of outdoor work. The clinic ruled out skin cancer. Then its behavioral health team helped him build healthier routines and find the right treatment plan for his mental health.
Clinic Served Nearly 1,000 Patients Last Year
Nathan is one of 925 patients the nonprofit served in 2025, according to a job listing posted by Freeman Philanthropic Services on behalf of the clinic. Those patients accounted for more than 14,000 medical and behavioral health visits and more than 33,000 courses of medication, all provided at no cost.
Enrollment Surge Reflects Growing Need in Pinellas County
The clinic reported a 140% increase in new patient enrollment in the months leading up to November 2025. The organization called it the highest surge in need ever recorded there. About 18% of Pinellas County residents lack health insurance, according to the clinic.
New CEO Follows a Longtime Leader's 26-Year Tenure
CEO Anthony "Tony" Degina, a 40-year health-care veteran who previously led Largo Medical Center for seven years, took over in March 2024 after longtime leader Jeannie Shapiro retired following 26 years at the helm. In a statement at the time, Degina said he was confident the clinic could "serve the medical and behavioral needs of our community in a compassionate, safe, accessible, and high-quality environment."
Wellness Center Will Double Behavioral Health Capacity
The clinic's behavioral health program is set to more than double in size when the Ruth and J.O. Stone Wellness Center opens. The 8,500-square-foot facility on Court Street will add space for rehabilitation, nutrition education and preventive care. The clinic has raised $5.5 million of a $7 million capital campaign for the project.
Volunteers and Donated Services Sustain Clinic Operations
Volunteer services over the past year were valued at more than $1.5 million, and the clinic received $3.75 million in donated clinical services including radiology, labs and specialized procedures, according to the organization.
Mayor Praises Clinic at Annual Fundraiser
@brucearector: "Awesome time last night at the 23rd annual 'Martinis and Matisse' art fundraiser at @FrankCrumPEO for the @ClwFreeClinic which has provided health care to low-income uninsured residents since 1977."
Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector posted that on Jan. 25 after attending the clinic's annual fundraiser.
How to Get Care
Uninsured residents of mid and north Pinellas County can start the intake process by completing a New Patient Inquiry Form at clearwaterfreeclinic.org. The clinic is at 1218 Court St., Clearwater. The phone number is 727-447-3041.
Upcoming: The Ruth and J.O. Stone Wellness Center grand opening celebration is Oct. 8 at the Court Street location.
