Street Medicine Program
Baylor University Medical Center’s Street Medicine Program delivers essential healthcare, mental health support and chronic disease management to unhoused individuals in Dallas. Launched through philanthropy, continued donor support is vital to sustain and grow this life-changing initiative.
Dr. Ti Hoang & Dr. John Garrett lead the Street Medicine Program
The healthcare crisis among Dallas’ homeless population
With an estimated 3,700 individuals experiencing homelessness in Dallas, many face chronic medical conditions, mental health challenges and limited access to consistent healthcare. As a result, emergency departments (EDs) often serve as a primary source of medical care. At Baylor University Medical Center (BUMC), over 10% of daily patient visits in the ED (23–35 people) involve those who are unsheltered.
Addressing the urgent needs of the unsheltered
Despite the critical healthcare needs of the homeless population, there are few resources dedicated to addressing their complex and chronic health issues in a consistent, compassionate manner.
The Street Medicine Program at BUMC aims to fill this gap by providing direct medical care to unhoused individuals, preventing unnecessary ED visits, and reducing hospitalizations. This program represents a unique opportunity to address both acute and long-term health needs while improving health outcomes and quality of life for one of Dallas’ most underserved populations.
Street Medicine: Meeting patients where they are
To address the needs of this vulnerable population, leaders at BUMC launched the Street Medicine Program in 2024. Modeled after successful street medicine programs across the nation, this initiative helps individuals manage both acute health needs and chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and mental health issues.
The only program in Dallas delivering care directly to unhoused individuals, the Street Medicine Program offers medical and psychiatric services, substance use treatment, medication, lab testing and inpatient consults. By building trust, the program fosters long-term engagement, stabilizes health and connects patients with essential community resources.
Additionally, the program offers graduate medical students and fellows invaluable hands-on experience, equipping the next generation of healthcare providers with the skills and empathy needed to serve in underserved communities.
Your role in transforming lives: Support Street Medicine’s impact
BUMC launched this program in 2024 with a grant from the Street Medicine Institute and additional funding is needed to sustain and grow this pilot program. Your support will ensure the program can continue to deliver essential care to Dallas’ most vulnerable residents, helping to improve health outcomes and build a healthier, more resilient community.
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Learn how donors are making a difference in the Street Medicine Program and other patient-centered programs at Baylor Scott & White.
