Devoted to Patients

"I don't believe most people in Connecticut have an idea of the magnitude of the uninsured," said Dr. Peter Maher, an AmeriCares Free Clinic volunteer.  "Most people think the problem is with the registered and non-registered immigrants, but a bigger problem now is the working poor."

Dr. Maher meets many low-income wage earners who can't afford their employers' healthcare plans as he does his volunteer work.  He came to the Norwalk Clinic two years ago after being referred by Dr. Burt Rubin, another physician who was also donating his time.  Recognizing the "growing increase" in the number of people lacking insurance, he now volunteers regularly at the AmeriCares Free Clinic of Bridgeport.

"It's very satisfying," he said. "It is a low stress atmosphere.  There is plenty of support.  And the need is tremendous."  

Dr. Maher worked for 35 years in internal medicine and cardiology in Greenwich, CT, before retiring in 2003.  These days, he keeps busy by teaching a weekly class to fourth-year medical students at Yale, and by donating his time to the AmeriCares Free Clinics of Bridgeport and Norwalk. 

"Dr. Maher makes all of our patients welcome and has a real gift for putting them at ease," said Sharon Joslin, clinic director in Bridgeport.  "Because of him, we're able to deliver not only quality medical care but also the intangibles of compassion and dignity to our patients."