Programs
C*A*R*E* Chest Medical Resource Programs
Durable Medical Equipment Program
A critical resource for local seniors, people with disabilities and injured children and adults, providing assistive technology and mobility equipment on loan, free of charge. Items loaned include wheelchairs, walkers, transfer benches, power-operated vehicles, hospital beds, shower chairs and other medical equipment needed to be independent, mobile and safe in their own homes and communities. Basic activities such as going outside, engaging in community events, bathing, and living independently are all facilitated by the use of this medical equipment. This is CARE Chest’s most accessed program, serving 34% of clients (2,898 in 2010).
Diabetic Program
Diabetic Program
Children and adults with diabetes receive free access to diabetic supplies and medications needed to manage their disease, remain in school and working and prevent secondary conditions. Clients are provided glucose meters, lancets, a six month supply of test strips and up to $100 annually for insulin and oral diabetes medications. The Diabetic Program is currently on pace to serve more than 3,000 Northern Nevadans in 2011—a 32% increase over last year. This jump reflects the growing demand for local diabetic services due to the ever-increasing number of people diagnosed with this chronic disease each year.
Emergency Prescription Program
Provides immediate prescription assistance to individuals suffering from illnesses, infections and chronic diseases that can prove fatal if left untreated. Adults receive up to $50 annually and children and disabled adults up to $100 annually to fill prescriptions at local partner pharmacies for antibiotics, anti-seizure, cardiac and respiratory medications. This program helped 2,628 people in 2010, preventing taxpayer and hospital-funded emergency room visits and long-term health complications.
Liquid Nutrition (Enteral) Program
A life-saving program for medically malnourished people, including cancer patients and the elderly, providing monthly supplies of instant breakfast and liquid nutrition, free of charge. Program clients survive on limited or no income and cannot afford the added expense of liquid nutrition, despite their critical need. This service enables clients to get the nutrients needed to remain independent and avoid hospitalization and institutionalization.
Respiratory Program
A vital service for clients suffering from respiratory infections, asthma, cystic fibrosis and other respiratory conditions, providing nebulizers on a loan basis to administer medication directly into the lungs. Donations of nebulizers are always greatly appreciated.
Consumables Program
Ostomy supplies, adult diapers, bed pads, lice shampoo, wound care and other consumable medical supplies are available on a monthly basis. While these items may appear small or inexpensive, living on a very limited-fixed income of less than $600 a month (as 36% of our clients do), any extra expense detracts from money for food, rent and families’ basic needs.
CARE Loan Program
Assistive Technology Loans for the purchase of items that make independent living safer and more accessible for local people with disabilities. Loans must be used for medically-related purchases such as equipment, computers, home or business modifications, vehicle conversions, lifts and other items needed to remain safe and independent and improve the overall quality of life for local people with disabilities.
Independent Living Program
A life-changing service for people with disabilities, enabling them to live safely and independently in their own homes and communities. Provides home and vehicle modifications designed to increase community involvement and productivity while maximizing independence and self-sufficiency. For more information, contact Independent Living Program Manager, Bob Donnelly at bdonnelly@carechest.com.
