Boston 'Health Care for the Homeless' saves lives

Somebody sent me this article today from wickedlocal.com

Dover resident helps the homeless, one foot at a time

of note

On a typical afternoon, Daggett said she sees between five and 10 men (though on occasion a woman will come in).

“We give them a warm foot bath to soak their tired and sore feet,” said Daggett. “These, of course, are homeless men who are out all day and walking no matter the weather. We examine their feet for any problems, and ask them if they are having any issues they would like to talk about. We give them foot cream, treat any conditions if needed, and sometimes sending them to the hospital with potentially serious situations.”

The more serious problems such as “trench foot” (also called “immersion foot”) are sent to the hospital.

Trench foot occurs when the feet are wet for long periods of time. It can be quite painful, but it can be prevented and treated, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/trenchfoot.asp)

I have medical insurance so I have never had to use this program, but I have met others that have and I can assure you that these people save lives.

The mission statement for the program says it all

For 25 years our simple mission has remained the same: to provide or assure access to the highest quality health care for all homeless men, women and children in the greater Boston area. We believe it has been Medicine that Matters.

Vulnerable Patients are kept alive with dignified care.

Shelters like Pine Street Inn and hopeFound can attend to their missions while BHCHP manages and staffs the shelter clinics across the city, consolidating services and saving dollars.

Boston's Hospitals have BHCHP as an alternative to emergency rooms and as a safe discharge place for vulnerable patients.

I just wanted to pass this along.