Knoxville, Tennessee: A Beacon of Hope in Healthcare Access
In the heart of Knoxville, a remarkable initiative is changing the healthcare landscape for many residents in East Tennessee. The St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic is making waves, quite literally, as it travels from town to town bringing free medical care to those who need it most. Led by the passionate Sister Mary Lisa Renfer, this mobile clinic serves areas such as Knox, Grainger, Cumberland, Scott, Meigs, McMinn, and Sevier counties, ensuring that healthcare is not just a privilege, but a right for everyone.
Recognizing Remarkable Contributions
Recently, Sister Renfer’s hard work has received noteworthy recognition. She has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious Lumen Christi Award for the 2024-25 year by the Catholic Extension Society. This honor not only acknowledges her dedication but also shines a light on the incredible work being accomplished at the clinic.
A Journey to the Clinic
The St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic was established back in 2014 with funds from the Diocese of Knoxville, stemming from the sale of the original St. Mary’s Hospital to Tennova Healthcare. With a mission to “make a difference in the lives of those that we serve,” the clinic has become a lifeline for those without health insurance. Sister Renfer, a member of the Religious Sisters of Mercy from Alma, Michigan, began her journey in medicine as a sister and took on the role of medical director in 2020—making her the only physician on the Clinic’s staff.
The mobile clinic does not function like a typical pop-up service. Instead, it operates consistently in various communities, treating patients in locations such as Athens, Crab Orchard, Crossville, Decatur, Gatlinburg, Helenwood, Pigeon Forge, Rutledge, and Washburn. Every site is an opportunity for the clinic to extend its reach and care, helping those who may otherwise lack access to essential medical services.
Compassion and Care at the Core
From the moment patients walk through the clinic’s doors, they are greeted with great dignity and respect. The experience provided by the staff and volunteers prioritizes patient care, ensuring that individuals feel valued and cared for. Sister Renfer emphasizes how crucial it is for everyone to receive care, touching on the mission of the clinic: “I think every person is deserving of care. And our goal is to be that outreach, to be the hands and feet of Christ in those areas where otherwise people would not be able to have access to that care,” she said.
A Personal Mission Fueled by Faith
For Sister Renfer, her role as medical director deeply intertwines with her faith. She sees her work as a vocation, a way to serve others while sharing love and compassion. “Being a sister reminds me every day that my life is not my own, I’ve given it to the Lord,” she explained. The transformation of her patients, seeing them gain confidence and realize their worthiness of care, is what she finds most rewarding.
An Invitation to Join the Cause
With the clinic continuously evolving, there are opportunities for community members to get involved. Those interested in receiving care as new patients can easily reach out by calling 865-212-5570 to schedule an appointment. Additionally, the clinic is on the lookout for volunteers, especially individuals with medical experience who want to make a difference. Sister Renfer notes how transformative volunteering can be for those in the medical field.
The clinic also has a specific need for Vietnamese translators, showcasing its commitment to reaching diverse communities. If you’re interested in helping out, you can inquire about volunteering by calling the same number or sending an email to info@smlcares.com.
A Bright Future
As the St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic continues to serve East Tennessee, it remains a powerful example of community commitment to healthcare access. With Sister Renfer at the helm, the future looks bright for countless individuals who will receive the care they deserve.
