Homeless on Skid Row Have New Healthcare Options Thanks to Telehealth Expansion

Date: 08/21/20

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise, L.A. County’s homeless population is among the most affected. In fact, the total number of people living on the streets, in vehicles and in shelters increased by 12% according to a recent report by the LA Times. It is the second consecutive double-digit increase since 2018.

Health Centers increase access to care locally

In downtown Los Angeles, clinics like the JWCH Institute have worked to provide quick and safe care for people living on skid row. Thanks to a $150,000 grant from Health Net, JWCH rapidly expanded their telemedicine capabilities to ensure their patients continue receiving the care necessary.

"Our homeless residents need to know that they are not alone. Being able to deliver high quality care in a safe and efficient way is more important than ever for our neighbors living on the street," said Dr. Paul Gregerson, Chief Medical Officer at the JWCH Institute. "We want to thank Health Net for their commitment to investing in telehealth. It has allowed us to serve hundreds more patients on skid row during COVID-19."

JWCH a Pillar in the Community

For a decade, JWCH Institute and its Center for Community Health have served as a safe haven on Skid Row. This area of LA is where signs of poverty and homelessness are ubiquitous. In the past, Health Net helped fund the renovation of a property purchased next to their preexisting clinic. Opened in July 2019, the area coined as the "Corner of Despair" has now evolved into the "Corner of Hope."

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