DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Fire Department has launched the Mobile Integrated Healthcare program in an effort to help people get medical care who might not be able to get it on their own, which includes those who are homeless.

“Those who experience homelessness or un-sheltered in the community they’re still members of our community,” said Hali Vanvelzen, a Des Moines Fire Medic. “It’s essential that as a member of the fire department we’re giving the best service possible so it’s about providing education showing them what resources are out there.”

The program is not just for the homeless.

“Someone that falls and the firetruck comes in to pick the person back up and they say they’re not injured, and then the next day they call and they fall again and the firetruck comes and after about three times the firetruck personnel think that they might need some assistance from the Mobile Integrated Healthcare in regards to their medical care, so we will make a visit to their house and see what they need or might need,” said Des Moines Firefighter, and long-time Des Moines paramedic, John Jensen.

The crew does not answer 911 calls, but is referred to check on residents who may need help.

“Trust is a huge factor, a lot of these individuals in the community whether they are in their home or on the street or in a shelter,” said Vanvelzen. “They look to us for guidance. A lot of us, many of us, don’t have that living experience, but if we can create that connection in that bond that helps provide a sense of security.”

“The big thing is to try to determine what the patient needs,” said Jensen. “What resources can we offer them and so it might be actually going to the doctor and then getting the doctor to refer to some agencies.”

Latest Metro News: