November 6, 2013: For immediate release
Edmonton, AB – Youth from difficult realities are accessing medical care, including mental health services, quickly and convenient, thanks to a successful partnership between Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network (PCN) and Youth Empowerment & Support Services (YESS).
Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network (PCN) opened a medical clinic in the YESS Armoury Resource Centre in January 2013 with two member physicians sharing duties of the weekly Wednesday clinic. YESS contributed $2,000 towards medical supplies for the clinic.
In the past, YESS clients had to go to walk-in clinics for medical services or to a hospital. The YESS youth workers would drive them if necessary so having physicians in house now saves time and resources for their staff.
The in-house medical clinic has become so popular that the PCN has agreed to expand services by adding hours and access to a mental health coordinator on-site.
Here’s what YESS clients say about the clinic:
“I enjoy having access to the doctors without having to leave the Armoury Resource Centre (ARC). It literally is steps away.”
“The doctors really seem to care about me. They take the time to know who I am.”
“It is awesome to have my prescriptions delivered to the ARC. No stress of having to leave ARC to get my meds.”
“Our PCN is proud to support YESS in its mission to assist youth facing difficult realities. This is the first time our PCN has opened a clinic for a specific population in Edmonton. We couldn’t have done this without the generous support of Dr. Mike Hamilton and Dr. Scott Soehn. We are pleased that we have reached between 80 and 100 youth since the clinic opened. As a PCN, we believe the best care is when a patient has a medical home and this clinic serves as a convenient, trusted place for care for youth in difficult situations,” explained Doug Craig, General Manager of Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network.