Street Medicine: Committed to Healthcare for All
Homelessness Happens Here
Homelessness has continued to climb nationally. In Michigan, this rate has climbed for nearly a decade. Estimates indicate about 350 individuals experiencing homelessness in the ten-county region, with 260 of those in Grand Traverse.
The Connection Between Health and Housing
Unhoused individuals face disproportionately high rates of chronic conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, heart disease, and mental health issues. The harsh realities of living without stable shelter or access to clean water and hygiene products – and the unpredictability of daily life – make managing health and recovery incredibly challenging. Unfortunately, homelessness can reduce life expectancy by up to thirty years.
How Munson Is Helping
Our community has long been dedicated to addressing these challenges. Munson Health is proud to support the Street Medicine Program, a collaboration among:
- Traverse Health Clinic, which provides mobile unit services for billing and electronic medical records, program oversight, and medical services.
- Goodwill Northern Michigan, which offers support and connections to housing, basic needs, and other community resources.
- Munson Residency Program, which delivers medical services.
The Street Medicine program delivers essential, preventive, and life-saving medical services directly to those living in encampments. Our comprehensive care includes:
- Preventive Healthcare: Screenings, blood pressure checks, mental health support, and more.
- Acute Care: Treatment for wounds, injuries, burns, and other urgent needs.
- Substance Use Treatment: Support for managing and overcoming substance use disorders.
- Pregnancy and Child Health: Care for pregnant individuals and well-child visits.
- HIV Testing and Prevention: Services provided in collaboration with the Munson Healthcare Thomas Judd Care Center.
- Basic Needs Coordination: Connections to housing and other essential services.
Additionally, we prioritize patients for available housing and actively work with partners to enhance community housing resources.
Munson is investing $300,000 over the next two years (through 2025) to support the program's growth and sustainability. This funding will allow for a dedicated coordinator to enhance the program's reach and impact. Learn more.