Patient Advocacy

The Advocacy Committee is responsible for determining what resources the patients at the clinic are in need of most. In collaboration with Lankenau's Medical Health Advocate Program, Advocacy compiles resources and handouts to help patients get connected with things they need. The goal is to identify and alleviate factors that are barriers against achieving optimal patient health. Some resources offered to patients include:

EDUCATION - Adult Education (including GED classes, literacy classes, community college information and life skills workshops). We also hand out information on Hand-washing and Immunizations.

FOOD - Information on food assistance programs, food delivery programs, where to find and how to pay for local farmers markets (Philly Food Bucks), kids’ food assistance, information on SNAP and how to apply, local food pantries, Kosher meals on wheels, free cooking classes.

INSURANCE - PA Medicaid Guide (shows what each plan offers and rates for doctors/hospital visits).

SUBSTANCE ABUSE - Addiction Recovery programs in the area, Support Groups for Substance Abuse.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT - Information on YMCA membership, Weight Watchers, Silver Sneakers and other fitness programs in the area as well as local trails and public tracks.

WOMEN AND CHILDREN - Information on breastfeeding, childcare, cribs, diapers, pregnancy education and reproductive health resources.

CULTURAL SPECIFIC - Centers that offer support to specific members on the community and immigrants of particular backgrounds.

DENTAL - Low cost dentists in the area and those that provide income-based services.

DISABILITY - Resources that provide educational, recreational and transportation services, as well as skills training, access to advocates and free evaluation for disabled members of the community.

EMPLOYMENT - Information on agencies and organizations in the area that provide job training, placement, counseling, compensation, etc.

FAMILY SUPPORT - Information on caregiving resources in the area for people who have chronic diseases, disabilities or the elderly.

HOUSING AND UTILITIES - Information on low-income energy assistance, housing counselors, homeless assistance programs, free home repair workshops.

MONEY MANAGEMENT - Information on family savings programs, financial management classes, financial advice.

OPTOMETRY - Information on free eye exams and access to cheap or free glasses.

OUTPATIENT LABS AND RADIOLOGY - Local labs and medical centers that accept Medicaid for Radiology services.

PHYSICAL THERAPY - Local programs that accept Medicaid for PT.

PRESCRIPTION RESOURCES - Websites to find discounts/coupons for prescriptions, information on assistance programs.

PSYCHIATRY - Local in-patient and outpatient centers for treating mental and behavioral health problems for people of all ages.

SMOKING CESSATION - Smoking assistance programs and hotlines to help you quit smoking.

STRESS RELIEF TECHNIQUES - Relaxation methods and ways to keep track of your goals, including a meditation guide and a list of “free days” at Philadelphia art and science museums.

TRANSPORTATION - Information on the MATP program which offers free rides to all doctor appointments as well as a list of taxi services in the area.

UNEMPLOYMENT - Guide to applying for unemployment compensation.