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Understanding San Fernando Community Health Center’s Street Medicine Program
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What is the purpose of SFCHC’s Street Medicine Program?
The purpose of SFCHC’s Street Medicine Program is to provide medical and behavioral healthcare services directly to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the San Fernando Valley. The program aims to meet people where live on the street, rather than within the four walls of a clinic, office or hospital.
What is street medicine?
Street medicine is the practice of bringing healthcare to people who are unsheltered. Research shows that meeting unhoused people where they are living on the street reduces barriers to care, helps prevent medical conditions from worsening or becoming life-threatening, and builds relationships of trust. Approximately 53 street medicine teams in California and 14 in Los Angeles County are currently operating, including the one launched by SFCHC in September 2023.
Why is there a need for this program?
On any given night, more than 75,000 people in Los Angeles County – and 10,701 people in the San Fernando Valley alone – experience homelessness. Nearly three out of four live on the streets in tents, makeshift shelters or vehicles. Many individuals and families do not have a stable place to call home due to the state’s growing housing crisis. Others come with histories of abuse, trauma and addiction, and are not comfortable receiving care in traditional settings. All face additional health risks related to violence, environmental exposure, food insecurity and sleep deprivation.
What areas does SFCHC’s street medicine team serve?
Working from a branded van equipped with basic medical supplies, SFCHC’s two- or three-person street medicine team visits designated locations and safe parking zones in Sylmar, Pacomia, North Hills, Panorama City and North Hollywood twice a week. Core members include a nurse practitioner, medical assistant and community health worker trained in the standards of care for street medicine. Mental health and other support services are coordinated by the SFCHC case management team.
What services does the SFCHC street medicine team offer?
Using proven outreach and engagement strategies, SFCHC’s street medicine team provides:
- Medical assessments for blood pressure, weight, temperature and blood sugar
- Behavioral health screenings and preliminary intervention for trauma, stress and grief
- Minor medical interventions, such as rash and wound care, vaccinations and ear canal cleaning
- Treatment of respiratory infections
- HIV and Hepatitis C rapid testing
- Referrals for ongoing services at SFCHC and other community-based entities
How is this program funded?
Our program is made possible by a $900,000 grant from Providence Health Services’ community benefits program and additional in-kind support.
How do I learn more?
For more information, please contact William Garcia, program coordinator and case manager, at 747.832.0211 or wgarcia@sfchealthcenter.org.
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