Guadalupe Clinic cheers 40 years of faithful care for the uninsured

By Morgan Cook

It’s a powerful testament to faith in action: What began 40 years ago with five dedicated nurses from St. Francis Hospital has grown into one of Wichita’s most vital ministries for those who lack health insurance. Guadalupe Clinic was born from a simple yet courageous vision – to create a place of healing for the uninsured. That vision quickly became something far greater.

Within the first month it was clear that the need for accessible, affordable care among Wichita’s underserved communities far exceeded expectations. 

The clinic’s mission evolved almost immediately. Now a ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Wichita, Guadalupe Clinic shifted from a wellness center to a full-fledged medical clinic grounded in Catholic values and dedicated to serving those with limited financial means. From the beginning, health care has been offered not as a privilege, but as a basic human right.

A pivotal moment came about a year into the clinic’s journey, when Doctors Daniel and Olga Tatpati began volunteering weekly to care for patients. Their commitment laid the foundation for what has become a strong, vibrant network of volunteer medical professionals – each called to serve those who otherwise would go without care.

Growth rooted in service

Today, Guadalupe Clinic continues to thrive with the help of more than 40 volunteer medical providers, including physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, and 15 specialists. These volunteers work alongside 25 dedicated staff members, including three full-time physician assistants, who ensure that continuity of care is delivered across both clinic locations.

What sets Guadalupe Clinic apart is its unwavering commitment to the uninsured. The clinic does not accept federal or state insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. This ensures that all available resources are reserved for those who have no other access to care.

Operating on an annual budget of more than $2 million, the clinic is entirely funded by private donations and grants. It is through the faith, generosity, and dedication of the Wichita community that Guadalupe Clinic continues its mission.

The clinic also has expanded its services in direct response to patient needs. In 2023 it added a vision clinic. By 2026, basic dental care will be introduced, another step toward ensuring holistic health for those it serves. Clinic hours also have increased, now offering services six days a week, including on Saturday mornings and three evenings, to better meet patients where they are.

Celebrate with us

To mark this extraordinary milestone, Guadalupe Clinic invites the Catholic community to its 40th anniversary celebration on Saturday, July 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church.

This celebration is more than a party – it is a moment of gratitude for all that has been accomplished through God’s grace and the support of countless volunteers, donors, and community partners. It’s an opportunity to honor those who have given their time, talent, and treasure to sustain this life-giving ministry.

Please RSVP to [email protected] to attend.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the generous sponsors who are providing the evening’s meal:

• Chicken by Stroots Locker;

• Steaks by Native American Enterprises, grilled on site by the team at Sabre Wealth; and

• Sides by Texas Roadhouse.

All food for the event has been donated. This is yet another example of the giving spirit that has sustained Guadalupe Clinic for four decades.

As we celebrate this milestone, we do so with deep gratitude and with hope that, together, we will continue this mission of faith, compassion, and healing for years to come.

Morgan Cook is development director of Guadalupe Clinic.