Street Medicine: Committed to Healthcare for All
Homelessness Happens Here
Homelessness continues to climb nationally. In Michigan, homelessness rates have increased for nearly a decade. In our ten-county region, it is estimated that 350 individuals are experiencing homelessness, 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, including Munson Healthcare, has long been dedicated to addressing these challenges. To ensure healthcare access, Munson is proud to financially support and staff* the Street Medicine Program, which is made possible through collaboration among:
- Traverse Health Clinic. Provides mobile unit services for billing and electronic medical records, program oversight, and medical services.
- Goodwill Northern Michigan. Supports and provides connections to housing, basic needs, and other community resources.
- The Munson Family Practice Residency Program. Our physician residents, led by attending doctors, deliver 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 invests $150,000 annually to support the program’s growth and sustainability. This funding allows a dedicated coordinator to enhance the program’s reach and impact. Learn more.