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Up from the streets: The RI medical navigator partnership as a model of structurally-informed service, education, and advocacy

M. Smith, P.J. Sharma, G. Dressler
R I Med J

The Rhode Island Medical Navigator Partnership (RIMNP) is an interdisciplinary student organization homed at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University with the tripartite mission of (1) improving access to care for patients experiencing homelessness, (2) sensitizing students to issues of homelessness through experiential learning, and (3) providing educational opportunities for providers. Centered on the lived experiences of people who are homeless, the RIMNP aims to combat structural violence and foster providers' structural competence through integrated direct service and advocacy. This article describes the RIMNP's efforts to bridge gaps in the health and social services landscape in Rhode Island, and ultimately concludes with a discussion of how similar models may be implemented at other academic institutions.

Smith M, Sharma PJ, Dressler G. Up from the Streets: The RI Medical Navigator Partnership as a Model of Structurally-Informed Service, Education, and Advocacy. R I Med J (2013). 2019;102(5):33-36. Available online.

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Publication year
Resource type
Commentaries & Blogs
Population
Homeless
Social Determinant of Health
Housing Stability