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12:13 PM EST Thursday
Foundation to donate facial surgery

A new foundation formed by three Greater Cincinnati health systems and a group of physicians has pledged to provide free treatment and reconstructive surgery to battered women, victims of criminal violence and individuals with facial deformities.

Called the Facial Foundation of Greater Cincinnati, the nonprofit organization will provide care to 24 needy individuals from Greater Cincinnati each year. Participating organizations include the Health Alliance, Mercy Health Partners and TriHealth Inc., according to a news release.

"In my practice, I have seen many patients who are deserving of reconstructive surgery, who cannot afford it, and insurance will not cover the surgery," said board chair Dr. Kevin Shumrick. "The Facial Foundation was formed to address these concerns right here in our community."

The foundation is still finalizing its legal structure and developing criteria for participation and an application process. It will be based at the Health Improvement Collaborative of Greater Cincinnati in Norwood, and the first surgeries are expected to be performed this spring.

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