Hospital receives $50,000 MoDOT grant

Texas County Memorial Hospital received a $50,000 federal grant from the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA).

The grant’s primary aim is to assist in covering expenses related to improving transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The hospital plans to utilize these funds to bolster the TCMH Medivan, a non-emergency transportation service provided by TCMH.

“This grant will cover 100 percent of the operating expenses associated with our TCMH

Medivan program,” said Jeff Gettys, TCMH director of projects and foundation.

“The funding will apply for expenses incurred between July 1, 2024, and Dec. 31, 2026.” TCMH currently provides medical transportation services to portions of Texas County and surrounding areas. Individuals of all ages regardless of their ability to transport themselves due to income, age, disability or other reasons, can rely on the TCMH Medivan for their transportation needs to a healthcare provider, the hospital or the pharmacy. The TCMH Medivan is wheelchair accessible and equipped for child safety seats, ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers.

“The TCMH Medivan is utilized for non-urgent trips,” said Bill Bridges, TCMH interim chief executive officer. “These trips will be especially important for individuals with chronic illnesses, surgical follow-ups, ongoing physical therapy or cardiac rehabilitation.”

According to Bridges, most people within a five- to ten-mile radius have access to transportation to the hospital or their healthcare provider. However, some towns in Texas County have a city transportation service, while people in the more remote county areas generally do not have the same transportation options.

Bridges further elaborated that, being situated in a rural area, the TCMH Medivan non- emergency transport system plays a crucial role in improving patients’ access to healthcare.

“By addressing transportation limitations, we can help individuals seek regular healthcare services, reducing the need for more costly emergency room visits and ambulance rides. This benefits the patient and the hospital, ensuring a more sustainable and secure healthcare system for our community.”

“We are extremely grateful to MoDOT for their exceptional support and generosity toward TCMH and the residents of Texas County,” Bridges said. “Thanks to their funding, we will be able to continue to better serve the community by offering increased accessibility and options for medical transportation.”

Rides on the TCMH Medivan are available by appointment with 24-hour notice by calling 417-260-2127. Scheduled round trips only charge for the ride to an appointment, and the ride home is complimentary.

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