ChesterCountyMedicineSummer2020 - 26

www.CHESTERCMS.org

CVIM Serves
Vulnerable Population
During Pandemic
BY: MARY WIRSHUP, MD, VICE PRESIDENT OF MEDICAL AFFAIRS

ommunity Volunteers in Medicine (CVIM) provides the working uninsured in our
community with access to high-quality, free medical and dental care. We partner with
volunteer physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists to care for hard working patients
who do not qualify for government health benefits, but cannot afford private health insurance.
We serve the most vulnerable in our region, and work with our partners and volunteers to build
a stronger, healthier community for all of us. Each year, we welcome more than 4,000 patients
through our doors during more than 45,000 visits. When the welcoming setting of face-to-face
visits, and the personal touch of volunteers that we cherish, are no longer safe for our patients and
our community due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, we pivot!
As the pandemic began, we asked our dedicated volunteer corps - nearly 500 strong - to stay
home to protect themselves, practice social distancing, and help flatten the curve. But CVIM
remained open and serving patients, delivering care in new and creative ways:
* Essential medical care continues via telehealth and limited in-person visits.
* Dispensing free medications through contactless delivery in the parking lot.
* Treating dental emergencies including infections, pain, and swelling.
* Providing additional PPE, sanitizing, temperature screenings, and safety training to everyone
present in the healthcare center.
* Behavioral health services continue via telehealth, helping patients with anxiety and depression
manage this alarmingly stressful situation.
* Proactive patient outreach and education helps our patients understand the COVID-19
pandemic and how to keep themselves and the community safe.
* Providing gas and grocery store gift cards and social service resources helps struggling families
put food on the table.
And when our patients face scary symptoms, we secure appropriate testing and treatment, while
offering expert clinical advice and emotional support.

2 6 C H E S T E R C O U N T Y M e d i c i n e | S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 2 0

http://www.chestercms.org

ChesterCountyMedicineSummer2020

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ChesterCountyMedicineSummer2020