Identity Clinic Closes, Launches Fundraiser for Transition

0:00Identity, the non-profits serving Alaska's LGBTQ plus community is closing its anchorage health clinic with in-person care wrapping up April 17th. Telehealth sticks around to May 1st, and they'll offer admin help transitioning patients to May 15th. The board cited delayed Medicaid reimbursements, insurance billing snacks, lease issues, and heavy staff strain as the main drivers behind this tough call. Tech Director Tom Pymman shared the deep sadness in a letter to patients and the community, calling it a decision not taken lightly. This clinic was Alaska's first dedicated to LGBTQ plus folks, born from a 2021 merger with another group. Identity itself traces back to 1977 as a community center that's grown into a key advocate over decades. To ease the transition, they're launching a fundraiser now to cover staff pay while they seek new jobs and shield patients from collection agencies on. Bills, keeping the focus on support as they pivot forward.

1:01Stay informed with Anchorage News Today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with The Story.