Research shows the positive connection between a person's socioeconomic status and their health. The idea that wealth is linked to health has been well-documented. Unfortunately, if you're one of the estimated 4.9 million Canadians living in poverty, you are more likely to develop a serious condition and less likely to access the necessary health services you need.
This reality is transforming how health care is delivered across the country, with more organizations developing innovative solutions to treat people falling between the cracks.
Organizations like Calgary Urban Project Society and Salvus Clinic in New Brunswick are helping their clients stabilize their health and move forward with support from Green Shield Canada, a not-for-profit that strives to improve health care access for all Canadians.
Salvus Clinic partners with other organizations to arrange for specialized health care, housing and employment supports, therapy and counselling. CUPS provides an integrated approach centred on health care, education and housing.
“When patients can maintain their health, they can begin to address and overcome other barriers in their lives and break the cycle of poverty and trauma,” explains Carlene Donnelly, executive director of CUPS.
By taking a broader and more comprehensive approach to health care, our country's most vulnerable people are getting the help and supports they need to make long-lasting positive changes for better physical and mental health.
Find more information online at www.greenshield.ca.
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