On October 19, 2023 the Hunterdon Health Foundation hosted their annual Crystal Evening event at Hamilton Farm Golf Club. The Foundation used the event as an opportunity to recognize individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to the betterment of Hunterdon Health and the community. goHunterdon was presented with the 2023 “Spirit of Hunterdon” Award for efforts to address the transportation needs of older adult patients to get to non-emergency medical appointments.
“goHunterdon has been integral to our ability to provide health care to those without transportation,” said Suzanne Schwanda, Chair, Hunterdon Health Foundation Board of Trustees. “
Since 2020, goHunterdon has coordinated the “Healthcare Access Transportation Program”, facilitating Uber and Lyft rides for patients of Hunterdon Healthcare. goHunterdon works collaboratively with Hunterdon Health Home Medical Care Coordinators who identify and request rides for patients who are at risk of missing appointments due to a lack of transportation.
Over the past three years, the program has been generously sponsored by the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, The Provident Bank Foundation, and the Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Fund. Rides are provided at no cost to participants.
goHunterdon has assisted more 120 patients keep more than 1,000 needed medical appointments.
“This program provides a direct solution to a long identified transportation gap, particularly for senior patients who often have no other way to get to primary care, follow up appointments, or screenings,” says Tara Shepherd, goHunterdon executive director. “We are very proud of the positive impact that this program is having on patients and we appreciate the Hunterdon Health Foundation bringing attention to our work.”
A video highlighting the award may be viewed here.