On January 4, 2023, Promise celebrated one year of transportation services! After many months of preparation, scrutiny, and revisions the white Promise van, also known as “Linda,” (which means beautiful in Spanish), embarked on her maiden voyage.
As 2022 ended “Linda” completed her 290th patient transport, traveling 19,300 miles, and allowing 213 patients to attend their appointments at the health center. These included medical, OB, dental, vision, therapy, and mental health appointments. As well as social work and financial counselor visits, and health coaching/diabetes education sessions.
Transportation services began at Promise to address the inequity of not having reliable transportation to go to medical appointments. It can be something many of us don’t actively think about until the low fuel or check engine lights flash; however, lack of transportation, rural living, and bitter winter weather make accessible transportation a first-hand challenge for many in our community. Promise is beyond excited to continue this program and offer transportation services to our patients. We are hopeful it will continue to be a blessing for many and will bridge the gap of accessible health care for all.
As I reflect on 2022 it seems fitting to me that Victor, our transportation coordinator, gave the name Linda to the Promise van. Beautiful is the perfect descriptor for the safe and reliable transport and care that has been made possible through this program.– Stephanie Van Ruler, Population Health Manager
Being able to provide this service to our patients so they can receive the medical help they need is awesome. It is also a huge responsibility, as my job is not only to help them be on time for their appointments but to bring them safely to the clinic and back home. I am glad Promise is able to provide this service to our patients. We are excited for what is to come as we plan to keep growing this department to provide the best services out there. #PromiseCares– Victor Garcia, Transportation Coordinator