Ascension St. Vincent’s brought health and wellness services to more than 220 uninsured or underinsured people at its Medical Mission at Home last month.
This free event brought medical care directly to those who need it, with no appointments or insurance required for patients to be seen. More than 400 volunteers participated in this event, held at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center on Saturday, May 9.
“This event is extremely special because it reflects what the Daughters of Charity started over 110 years ago: bringing care out into the community,” said Ascension St. Vincent’s Interim Market Lead Scott Kashman. “It represents what we do at Ascension and our dual identity as a faith-based healing ministry and healthcare enterprise.”
On-site services included adult and pediatric medical, vision, and hearing exams, no-cost prescription dispensing, foot washing, ear washing, women’s health services, mental health resources, spiritual services, and free distribution of food, shoes, clothing, and other essential items, as well as coordinating follow-up appointments and medical home attachment.
A flagship community impact program for Ascension St. Vincent’s, Medical Mission at Home was first launched in the 2010s. It returned this year with plans to make this a recurring initiative.
Attendees like Water Elkins said the event had a significant impact on people.
“I’m really, really happy that they’re here, because they’re providing services that are much needed,” Elkins said. “There’s a lot of people out there that don’t have the ability to figure out what’s actually going on, and that’s half the battle.”