What is street medicine training?

Street medicine involves delivering healthcare services directly to individuals on the street, in encampments, or in rural areas where access is difficult.

Which foundations are involved in the $3 million grant?

The Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation, St. Joseph's Foundation of San Joaquin, Mercy Medical Center Merced Foundation, and Dominican Hospital Foundation are collaborating.

When will street medicine rotations begin for doctors?

The goal is to have doctors begin participating in these specialized rotations by the end of next year, as part of a five-year project.

Home / Health / New Grant Brings Street Medicine to Vulnerable Californians

New Grant Brings Street Medicine to Vulnerable Californians

27 Nov, 2025

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Summary

A $3 million grant aims to embed street medicine training into residency programs.
The initiative focuses on expanding healthcare access for homeless and vulnerable populations.
Future doctors will learn to navigate complex needs and systems for underserved individuals.

New Grant Brings Street Medicine to Vulnerable Californians

A new $3 million grant is set to significantly enhance healthcare accessibility for vulnerable groups across Northern California, with a special focus on the homeless population. The funding will establish a comprehensive street medicine training program, embedding it directly within residency curricula at multiple hospitals.

This initiative is designed to train future physicians in the unique challenges of street medicine, addressing the needs of individuals who are unhoused, unstably housed, or face significant barriers to traditional healthcare. The program will prioritize cultural competency and building trust with diverse patient populations.

The project, spanning five years, aims to start rotations by the end of next year. By equipping doctors with the skills to provide care in non-traditional settings and guide patients through complex social and medical systems, the initiative seeks to bridge critical gaps in health service delivery for those most in need.