We’ve expanded our patient greeter program at the Riverside Flaster Family Health Center to ensure patients feel welcomed and safe.
The program, first started at the First Avenue Specialty Services Michelle Wagner Center in San Diego, CA, allows greeters to meet patients in the parking lot and escort them to the door of the medical facilities. It has been implemented at locations that often see higher levels of protesters to make patients feel more comfortable getting to the building to receive the important health care services they are seeking.
“At Planned Parenthood we believe everyone deserves access to care, no matter what. Patient greeters have been instrumental in ensuring that for our patients,” said Sharina Carbajal, Director of Volunteer & Supporter Engagement at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. “The greeter program at the Riverside health center started a few weeks ago, but has already received very positive feedback. We are thrilled to be able to make our patients’ time with us more comfortable and safe.”
Not only has it provided a better experience for many patients, but greeters have also served as an extra set of eyes and ears on the building, which helps our security team. The volunteers have also helped staff in directing patients to the locations they need to go and making the overall visit for the patients run smoother.
One volunteer, Sara N., said she is glad that Planned Parenthood is able to provide a positive presence to welcome patients. “The greeter program is so meaningful because it serves as a supportive and safe presence for patients at a time when they are trying to access important and necessary care,” she added.
“I am so proud to play a role in welcoming patients into the center and helping them to feel more safe and comfortable,” said Theresa H., another volunteer. “This program is important and I’m so glad I could play a role in making sure patients know they’re not alone.”
To learn about the volunteer program visit planned.org/volunteer or email [email protected].
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