Inside this issue
3
WINTER 2024
Broadening Access to Care Through the Community Clinic
I n 2023 , the U . S . Census Bureau estimated nearly 5 million Texans were uninsured or underserved , often relying on emergency departments for their medical needs . These patients frequently leave the hospital with instructions to follow up with their primary care physician or a specialist . But what happens when they lack access to a medical home or cannot afford specialty care ? Many find themselves in a vicious cycle of health issues exacerbated by the absence of health insurance .
This is where Baylor Scott & White Health ( BSWH ) steps in with its innovative community care strategy . By providing a network of physicians , clinics and support programs , BSWH empowers people
“ It ’ s taking medical psychosocial complexity and partnering that with teams of people who have resources to change the trajectory of their life .
— Jeffrey Zsohar , MD , medical director of BSW Community Care Clinics
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to manage their health proactively , which is especially important for patients with chronic conditions . The Community Care Clinics fill an important gap , providing patients with a medical home and connecting them with social services and free or low-cost medications .
Across North Texas , nine such BSW clinics , including one in Fort Worth , are making a significant impact on patient care . These clinics are designed to address the needs of rising-risk populations and improve the quality of care for patients who typically visit emergency rooms for ongoing illnesses requiring complex case management .
It is estimated that 5 % of patients account for 50 % of all medical costs .
Inside this issue
Departments
2 From the president
Focus on : Community
News , Projects & Campaigns
2 When you win , we do too .
3 Mission in ministry
4 Beyond the Bag
5 Child life services
Dr . Nathan Smith
6
7 Empowering postpartum care
8 Tis the season to give
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