“More Well-being” Initiative Reaches 300 in Street Situations with Nighttime Outreach
A new initiative, “More Well-being,” is bringing healthcare and social support directly to individuals experiencing street habitability in the city, impacting the lives of over 300 people in vulnerable situations through more than 27 outreach tours. The programme focuses on providing dignified support,reducing societal stigma,and facilitating social inclusion by meeting people where they are.
Teams operate during nighttime hours, offering psychosocial support, emotional validation, and personalized guidance. According to Marcela Martínez, Deputy Director of Collective Actions for the ministry of Health, the strategy is designed to address diverse needs identified during the outreach efforts. While some areas require focused attention on psychoactive substance use, others reveal a significant population of sick adults and elderly individuals who are either excluded from or not prioritized within the existing healthcare system.
“More Well-being” uniquely combines the on-the-ground experience of social integration teams with the technical expertise of professionals from the District Health Secretariat – including doctors,nurses,psychologists,and social workers. This collaborative approach allows for the implementation of a social primary care model tailored to the specific dynamics of individuals living in street situations, providing integral, dignified, and effective care.
Recognizing the widespread rejection and stigma faced by this population, the district is also conducting community awareness campaigns to foster co-duty and understanding.
Health officials emphasize a respectful, voluntary approach. ”We don’t impose services,” explained a capital health spokeswoman. “We visit individuals,provide information,and respect their decision.However, when they choose to accept support, we are committed to achieving positive outcomes.”
The initiative also includes preventative healthcare measures, with vaccinations for Hepatitis B, influenza, and pneumococcus being offered to individuals over 60 years of age.
