Community Closet Program for Emergency Department Patients

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Community Health & Well-Being Worker (CHWB):
  • Oversees the overall management of the program.
  • Provides training and support to CHWs.
  • Tracks program metrics and performance.
  • Ensures successful implementation of the program in the Emergency Department.
• Community Health Worker (CHW):
  • Directly interacts with patients upon referral.
  • Conducts a Social Indicators of Healt (SIOH) screening.
  • Provides necessary clothing items.
  • Develops plans to address social care barriers and coordinates with patients throughout their health journey.
  • Manages and maintains clothing supplies in the designated closet.
• Inventory Operations:
  • Orders supplies for the program and maintains inventory records.
  • Ensures adequate stock levels of clothing items.
     

Collaboration with Nurses

Nurses play a crucial role in identifying patients who may benefit from the clothing access program. By working closely with CHWs, nurses can ensure that patients receive timely assistance and appropriate clothing items. Nurses may also assist in conducting initial screenings or providing additional support to patients during the clothing distribution process. This collaborative approach helps to streamline the program and ensure that patients' needs are met effectively.

Clothing Items Available

The program offers a variety of clothing items to meet the needs of patients. Common items include socks, shorts, sweatpants, t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets. Additional items may be available upon request, depending on specific needs and availability. By providing a range of clothing options, the program aims to ensure that patients have access to the items they require to feel comfortable and dignified.

 

Program Goals

• Provide clothing access to patients in need.
• Facilitate a smoother discharge process from the Emergency Department or Inpatient units.
• Enhance the overall patient experience.
• Develop a scalable process for clothing distribution.

Expected Outcomes

• Reduce patients' social concerns related to clothing.
• Improve patient satisfaction and overall well-being.
• Contribute to a more efficient and effective discharge process.

By addressing the critical need for clothing among Emergency Department patients, this program aims to make a positive impact on their overall health and well-being.