Access to healthcare for immigrants
Immigrants and non-native English speakers are particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 crisis. On top of social distancing, they face cultural, language and insurance barriers to receiving healthcare. Quality care is vital, especially for those who have had exposure to COVID-19.
United Way is stepping up to ensure immigrants and non-native English speakers get the care they need by supporting nonprofits like Casa de Salud. With funding through an emergency response grant, Casa de Salud is supporting the community by:
- Transitioning to telehealth to serve patients. Virtual appointments provide access to primary care and mental health counseling while keeping patients and providers safe.
- Connecting each patient with a medical provider, interpreter, nurse and medical assistant at each telehealth appointment so patients receive comprehensive care and assistance.
- Expanding their staff of professional interpreters to facilitate more than 200 telehealth appointments in April. Interpreters empower patients to speak to their provider in their preferred language, helping patients communicate accurately and sincerely about their needs for the highest possible level of care.
What your support means
Casa de Salud’s help has been life-changing for patients like Francisco*, who had been coming to therapy at Casa de Salud earlier in the year but couldn’t continue because of transportation challenges. When Casa de Salud transitioned to telehealth, Francisco’s therapist reached out. Francisco responded immediately and resumed his weekly sessions. He confided in his therapist that he was at a low point when he received the call, and this act of compassion helped him turn things around.
*Name has been changed for privacy.
We’re all in this together
This is just one example of the critical work being done in our community right now. In the coming weeks, United Way will continue to stand by our region, helping with both critical disaster relief and long-term recovery efforts.
TAKE ACTION NOW:
- If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, dial 2-1-1 or visit 211helps.org to get connected to local resources.
