Buckeye Health Center to provide space for wraparound services; One-stop support for patients

Seeing a medical provider is just one aspect of health care. Social determinants of health, such as the need for food or housing/emergency shelter, also can impact well-being. Starting June 10, Buckeye Health Center patients will have access to wraparound services in the same location where they receive their health care.

The plan to bring community services to Buckeye Health Center has been in the works for about two years. The idea came from a pilot program in Buffalo, NY, where a health care organization offered space for social services. Market research and surveys with MetroHealth patients confirmed the need for a variety of social services that could be easily accessible.

"The likelihood that they'll come to appointments is better if they get everything they need in one place," explains Julie Jacono, Vice President, Strategic Operations. "We are removing the wear and tear of getting their health care in one place and the need to go somewhere else to get their benefits or other services."

To prepare for the building's new configuration, most of MetroHealth's services have moved to the second floor. "We're so excited about this," says Samantha Coleman, Ambulatory Ops Manager, Buckeye Health Center. She attends meetings in the neighborhood, and is aware of the community's unique needs. For instance, prior to a grocery store opening last summer, Samantha says the area was considered a food desert.

In addition to high-quality, comprehensive health care services for patients, residents of the surrounding community will have access to family support services, food assistance, safety information, educational services and financial planning/assistance.

We are partnering with the following organizations to serve our community:

• The Greater Cleveland Foodbank: Provides help with food benefit applications and nutritional and food education services.

• Domestic Violence Child Advocacy Center (DVCAC): Provides support services for victims of domestic violence and abuse and their families.

• Goodwill: Provides personal development skills, vocational services, financial literacy education, computer training, parenting skills and social service navigation

• The Legal Aid Society: Provides on-site legal services to assist with matters related to children, housing, and other civil, legal needs.

• Trauma Recovery Center: Provides support services, health education, recovery mentorship, and ongoing community connection following a major, life-altering injury, trauma, or victimization.

Organizations were invited to submit proposals to explain how their services would benefit Buckeye patients. The space is being offered for free, with the caveat that the organization must commit to staying at least a year and be onsite by June. "We were so impressed by the quality of everyone's proposal and commitment," Julie says.

The schedule is still being finalized, but most of the organizations will offer services during health center hours, MetroHealth says. To support these services, the first floor will house a computer lab, counseling rooms and a food pantry area. The MetroHealth pharmacy, radiology and the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program also will remain on the first floor.