A Closer Look at Intergrating Peer Work into a Healthcare Practice

This presentation will compare a peer pilot program in NYC and an expanded peer work program launched the following year and review successes, challenges and next steps. An outreach initiative designed to recruit and train consumers interested in doing peer work. Peers educate clients regarding clinic services, escort clients to schedule necessary appointments, provide appointment reminders and follow up with clients whom miss multiple appointments.  Peers work as part-time, temporary employees without jeopardizing their current benefits. Peers help enhance the work of a practice by increasing awareness of/access to healthcare for homeless clients and providing linkages.