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Medical
Patient Story

“This is a story about a current patient who first arrived at Caring Health
Center fourteen years ago, having traveled alone to the United States to start
a new life. With help from Jewish Family Services, the patient was set up for
her first refugee health visit, where she established a relationship with our
Refugee Health Coordinator. During her initial visit, the provider noticed
some abnormalities leading to a diagnosis of stage two breast cancer. The
patient bravely underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment, while
balancing extreme hardships as she relied on public transportation for her
treatments and layoff from her job as a cleaner at a cafeteria. Fortunately,
the patient beat her diagnosis and became cancer-free. Unfortunately, last
summer when the patient received a routine mammogram, we discovered
that she again had stage two breast cancer, this time requiring surgery and
radiation therapy. Over the years, our providers have observed mood changes
and symptoms of depression. In response, the patient was referred for services
in our Behavioral Health Department – her first experience receiving mental
health care. This connection helped the patient to find support in dealing
with her high stress level related to her medical, housing, and financial
situation.

Besides medial and behavioral health support, the patient has also received
valuable social support at Caring Health Center. For example, one day the
patient arrived and shared that she had no money to pay for rent or food.
Our Community Support Program Workers and Refugee Health Coordinator
helped her obtain food stamps and cash assistance, while working hard to
help her obtain an affordable apartment. Since then, these staff have visited
the patient’s home and the patient has expressed that she considers our staff
as family. Recently, the patient discovered that her disability case was denied
and her health insurance was terminated. Our staff again advocated for
her by supporting her throughout the disability court process. Ultimately,
the patient obtained her disability and reimbursement. The patient
is currently cancer-free and continues to receive support from our staff.”
~Elmira

Medical Services

Caring Health Center primary care providers –
including doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician
assistants understand that the beginning of great
medical care is finding a caring and highly qualified
primary care provider to deliver care to you and your
family. Caring Health Center’s providers are ready
to fulfill your needs to ensure quality of life
is maintained at various locations throughout
Springfield.

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