City of Tacoma to launch new Street Medicine Pilot Program to address homelessness
by Karina Vargas
Wed, October 23rd 2024 at 3:45 PM
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TACOMA, Wash. — The city of Tacoma is preparing to launch a new Street Medicine Pilot Program that will bring crucial healthcare services directly to unsheltered people.
City officials said this will expand their efforts to address homelessness in the area.
The program is funded by a $1 million grant from the Washington State Health Care Authority.
“The Street Medicine Pilot Program goes beyond treating illnesses; it aims to build trust, uphold dignity, and provide a pathway to a better life for those experiencing homelessness,” said Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards in a press release. “This initiative is a crucial part of our comprehensive strategy to address homelessness in Tacoma, which also involves increased investments in affordable housing, supportive services, and preventative measures.”
The Street Medicine Pilot Program will be implemented with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. The program will deploy specially trained street medicine teams to provide care to individuals living in encampments, tent cities, vehicles, and other unsheltered locations, according to city officials.
These teams will be comprised of medical and behavioral health professionals, including a medical provider, a behavioral health professional, and a community health worker.