A patient recently visited the Greater Family Health center in Streamwood for a routine follow-up appointment to manage a chronic health condition. These appointments are essential to maintaining his well-being. During the intake process, the Medical Assistant noticed the patient appeared fatigued and slightly short of breath. Concerned, she asked if he was feeling alright. The patient explained that he was simply exhausted from walking to the health center.
Although he lives just two miles away—a six-minute drive or a 36-minute walk according to Google Maps—it took him nearly two hours to arrive due to his slower pace, a result of his health condition. To make matters more challenging, his appointment fell on one of the hottest days of the summer. Without access to a vehicle and with no family members available to drive him, the patient made the difficult decision to walk.
Upon learning this, the Medical Assistant informed the patient about Greater Family Health’s travel reimbursement program. She explained that patients can use public transportation and, with proper verification from the front desk staff, receive up to $15 each way to cover travel costs. The patient was unaware of this resource and expressed deep gratitude for the information.
To ensure his safe return home, the Medical Assistant and front desk staff worked together in helping the patient arrange public transportation and take advantage of the travel reimbursement program. Given the extreme heat and his physical condition, walking back was not a safe option. The patient now knows he can rely on public transportation and the travel reimbursement program whenever family support isn’t available.
This experience highlights the dedication and compassion of our Medical Assistants and front desk team, who consistently go above and beyond to support our patients’ health and comfort. Their commitment to patient care is a cornerstone of the Greater Family Health mission.
