Teaming up with Legal Aid of Western Missouri, St. Luke’s is using a $150,000 grant to unravel legal and social issues before they reach crisis level, a hospital executive told the Kansas City Star.
For example, if a patient’s health is harmed by living in a mold-infested apartment and the landlord won’t take action, a Legal Aid staff member can pursue a remedy for the patient.
Since 1993, similar programs at other U.S. hospitals have helped improve healthcare for indigent patients. The concept has the backing of the American Hospital Association, American Bar Association, American Medical Association and American Academy of Pediatrics.
Read more coverage on help for the uninsured:
– Coverage for Low-Income Children Expanded in Past Decade
– Detroit Hospital System CEOs Encourage Coordination of Health Services
– Scott & White to Launch Health Center for Uninsured, Underserved
