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City of Tacoma Expands Efforts to Address Homelessness With New Street Medicine Program

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~ Tacoma, Washington - The City of Tacoma has taken a significant step forward in its efforts to address homelessness with the launch of a new Street Medicine Pilot Program. This program aims to bring crucial healthcare services directly to people living unsheltered, demonstrating the city's ongoing commitment to tackling this pressing issue.

Funded by a $1 million grant from the Washington State Health Care Authority, Tacoma joins four other jurisdictions - the City of Spokane, the City of Everett, King County, and Kitsap County - in receiving similar funding. This investment highlights the state's recognition of the critical need for targeted healthcare solutions for those experiencing homelessness.

Mayor Victoria Woodards expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating that it goes beyond treating illnesses and aims to build trust and provide a pathway to a better life for those experiencing homelessness. She also emphasized that this initiative is an essential part of Tacoma's comprehensive strategy to address homelessness, which includes increased investments in affordable housing, supportive services, and preventative measures.

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Jani Hitchen, Chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Health, also praised the program for bringing healthcare directly to those who do not have access to shelter or reliable food resources. She believes that this pilot will not only help stabilize and heal unhoused individuals but also have positive impacts on other systems such as hospitals, shelters, law enforcement agencies, and schools.

Vice Chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Health and Tacoma City Council Member Joe Bushnell highlighted how traditional healthcare models often fail to reach those living unsheltered. By taking healthcare directly to the streets through specially trained Street Medicine Teams, barriers to access can be broken down and immediate needs can be addressed. This approach also allows for building lasting relationships that support long-term health and well-being.

The Street Medicine Pilot Program will be implemented in partnership with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. Leveraging their expertise in public health, specially trained teams will provide care to individuals living in encampments, tent cities, vehicles, and other unsheltered locations.

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Director of Public Health Chantell Harmon Reed emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers to service and meeting people where they are in order for public health to truly serve the community. She believes that the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department is uniquely positioned to improve access to necessary healthcare for those living unsheltered. This new program will not only help individuals protect and improve their health but also support their transition out of homelessness.

The Street Medicine Teams will consist of medical and behavioral health professionals, including a medical provider, a behavioral health professional, and a community health worker. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that individuals receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique circumstances. The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department will also work closely with community stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, primary care providers, and behavioral health providers to ensure coordinated and wraparound services for those in need.

With the launch of this Street Medicine Pilot Program, the City of Tacoma is taking a proactive approach towards addressing homelessness and providing much-needed healthcare services to those who need it most. As the program progresses, it is hoped that it will have a positive impact on both individuals experiencing homelessness and the community as a whole.

Filed Under: Government, City
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