Access to medical care across the United States has posed its many challenges, especially concerning its growing costs. From rising out-of-pocket costs, primary care shortages, to long waiting periods for appointments, access has become strained. In a climate and culture where prices seem to only increase, access to healthcare is dwindling, and health fears are at an all time high, it is reasonable to desire comfort and stability. Peace of mind is not a luxury or privilege when it comes to healthcare; it is a necessity. Long Island prioritizes ensuring quality care is offered to every person regardless of financial status to improve the health of not only the individual, but the community as a whole.

 

The Evolution of Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted legislators and those heavily involved in generating policies to reevaluate healthcare access and utilization. Efforts to improve access, resulted in Medicaid expansions and increased outreach through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This act initiated subsidies in the Affordable Care Act, which were extended by the Inflation Reduction Act. As a result, an increase in Medicaid enrollment and state Medicaid expansions occurred. However, the improvements were not universal and healthcare issues persisted. Millions of Americans remain uninsured or have lost Medicaid coverage due to affordability challenges tied to low incomes and limited-access to employer-sponsored insurance.

 

Long Island Takes Action

Long Island has taken a proactive approach to addressing healthcare disparities by providing critical medical services to those in the most vulnerable situations. Those facing extenuating circumstances due to low-income and homelessness deserve consistent, quality care. Long Island prides itself on providing comprehensive, patient-centered medical treatment and care to all individuals regardless of their economic circumstance.

Major healthcare practices, including Northwell Health operate numerous facilities throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Northwell Health alone runs twenty-eight hospitals, not including the many outpatient facilities across the island. While an impressive network, the driving force behind its mission extends beyond infrastructure and clinical capacity. Community-centered commitment and compassion lie at the heart of the mission. An example of this value in action is illustrated by Northwell’s Street Medicine Team. This mobile outreach program supplies primary care-style medical services directly to homeless individuals. Both doctors and patients agree this effort is saving lives.

Amid the bitter cold Long Island has faced in recent weeks, life-changing care can even be provided in the most unconventional settings, including parking lots. Jenny, 43, and her partner Bryan, 50, both patients of Northwell’s Street Medicine Team, have been homeless for three years. Through collaboration with the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, an organization which helps individuals gain greater access to care and insurance, the couple is immensely grateful for the care received.

Specifically, Bryan calls the team his “angel crew,” crediting them for saving his life numerous times. After surviving several episodes involving clots and pulmonary embolism, issues that could have killed him, the team’s intervention has provided life-saving care. Bryan’s story emphasizes the value of community outreach and how such care can mean the difference between life and death in many cases.

Human connection lies at the core of Long Island’s medical mission. Dr. Debbie Salas-Lopez of Northwell Institute for Community Health states how dignity and respect are unwavering values when providing treatment. These principles remain steady as the Northwell Street Medicine Team serves a distance of 3,800 miles on Long Island. From Nassau County to the East End, approximately 93 homeless patients have received care from the team, a number that will only grow as outreach expands.

At a time when proper healthcare access is often defined by affordability, Long Island is determined to change the narrative. When care for everyone is a priority and motivation is defined by empathy and compassion, hope and comfort can be restored. Individual and community strength will grow and prosper with these efforts.

FAQs

Why is healthcare access difficult for homeless people?

Homeless individuals often lack health insurance and affordable means of accessing care. These issues make it nearly impossible to make medical appointments and receive proper treatment.

How does Northwell Health’s Street Medicine Team operate?

Northwell’s Street Medicine Team travels across Nassau and Suffolk counties, providing care services directly to homeless individuals. Also, the team collaborates with organizations like the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless to help patients access insurance, follow-up care, and additional support services. 

How does this approach benefit the overall community?

Providing consistent care reduces emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and long-term healthcare costs. Additionally, proper care prevents the spread of infectious diseases and strengthens public health within the community. 

How many individuals have received help from Northwell Health’s Street Medicine Team?

The team has provided care to approximately 93 homeless individuals and continues to expand its outreach efforts across Long Island.

See full article here: Northwell Street Medicine Team brings life-saving care straight to the homeless