Reading Hospital Foundation receives donation for its Street Medicine program

WEST READING — Capital Blue Cross recently made a donation to the Reading Hospital’s Street Medicine program — a program aimed at improving the quality of care provided to both patients and underserved communities in Berks County.

“The work of these incredibly dedicated medical professionals is truly inspiring,” Susan Hubley, vice president of corporate social responsibility at Capital Blue Cross, said in a statement. “They provide vital medical care with compassion to the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Launched in 2016, Reading Hospital’s Street Medicine program delivers primary and preventative care to the unsheltered, those living in homeless shelters, and those at high risk of experiencing homelessness, according to a press release. That care is delivered by an all-volunteer team comprised of local medical providers.

Through their efforts, the team proactively addresses health issues, decreases emergency department visits, and reduces readmission rates while reducing the cost. Their efforts have also proven to help patients adhere to care and medication plans.

In 2022, the Street Medicine program provided care for approximately 2,000 patients.

“Our team is extremely grateful to Capital Blue Cross for their generosity,” Katherine Thornton, president, Reading Hospital Foundation, said in a statement. “A donation like this to the Street Medicine Program will help us continue our work of providing care for those in need and help us extend our reach.”

The amount of the donation was not disclosed.