Mission

The corporation is a nonprofit organization organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 50l(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended, or the corresponding provision of any subsequent Federal tax law.

The corporation is to receive and administer monetary gifts for charitable, benevolent civic, health, scientific and educational purposes, primarily for the purpose of enhancing the quality of medical care in the State of Delaware, in a manner which shall:

  • Afford to persons an opportunity to make gifts with a greater beneficial result than possible through individual action;
  • Afford to corporations an opportunity equal to that of individuals to create memorials or make gifts as the circumstances of their economic situation warrant, from time to time;
  • Safeguard and provide for the permanent security of' such gifts.

Why Support DFMS

Why consider a contribution to DFMS through the Annual Mission Appeal?

    • Enhancing the health of underserved and underinsured/uninsured populations
    • Helping patients get the support they need to achieve optimal health
    • Finding innovative ways to address Social Determinant of Health (SDOH)
    • Supporting non-profit clinics that serve the state’s most vulnerable

What Programs does DFMS Support

What does DFMS support?

•      Support physicians at non-profit clinics The Rosa Health Center and Hope Clinic to serve the underinsured and uninsured

The Hope Medical Dental Clinic in Dover is deeply grateful for the unwavering support we've received from the Delaware Foundation of Medical Services (DFMS) over the years. Thanks to DFMS’s generous grant funding, we’ve been able to manage the heavy burden of insurance premiums—a challenge that could otherwise limit the care we’re able to provide. By easing this financial pressure, DFMS has enabled us to focus our resources where they matter most: directly on our patients. Because of them, more individuals in our community continue to receive the vital medical and dental care they need and deserve. We can’t thank DFMS enough for being such a loyal and compassionate partner in our mission! –  Daniel Condoluci-Smith, Executive Director

Ten years ago, the Rosa Health Center opened in Georgetown to serve the community members of Georgetown and surrounding Sussex County.  Unlike other practices, the majority of our patients, (70%), were needy, uninsured and had difficulty accessing healthcare. The impact of the support and encouragement of The Medical Society of Delaware and its foundation has helped The Rosa Health Center’s growth and the pursuit of its mission and goals. We are very grateful and thankful to the Medical Society of Delaware and its Foundation. - Dr. Rama Peri, La Rosa Health Center

At Sunday Breakfast Mission, we are profoundly grateful for the grant that has enabled retired but licensed physicians to continue providing essential medical care at our weekly clinic to our homeless community. This grant covers malpractice insurance costs, allowing these dedicated professionals to practice with peace of mind. The presence of our experienced retired physicians significantly enhances the quality of care we offer, bringing comfort and hope to individuals who often feel overlooked by society. -  Dr. Cindy Heldt

 
•      Enhance the works of the Health Care Connection program to meet the needs of the uninsured and under insured population of the State of Delaware


FAQ's on Requesting a Grant From DFMS

How do I apply for a grant?

  • The 2025 Grant application is available here

What type of services have you funded recently?

  • Support non-profit clinics by helping with physician malpractice insurance
  • Support ongoing efforts to provide food, nutrition education, and resources to families, including help with pantry overheads, food supply costs, and administrative expenses, which are essential for our operations
  • Provide financial assistance for operations of MSD podcast series

When do the applications close?

  • Currently, applications are accepted on a rolling basis                  

How much can I request for a grant?            

  • Grant awards are capped at $10,000
  • DFMS does not have any restrictions on reapplying if you were awarded or rejected for a request

Background

In 1992, the Medical Society of Delaware formed the Delaware Foundation for Medical Services, Ltd. to serve as a vehicle for funding a new program to improve access to medical care for the Medicaid population in Delaware. In 1993, this program, entitled the Voluntary Initiative Program (VIP) was formed in cooperation with the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services and the Delaware Healthcare Commission. READ MORE.
About the Delaware Foundation for Medical Services