COVID-19 has affected us all. In the effort to prevent the spread of the virus, it has affected where we can go, how we can interact with family and friends, and how/if we can work. As an Internal Medicine Resident, I have witnessed how COVID-19 is affecting our patients. Many of our Internal Medicine Clinic patients were already medically, socially, and economically vulnerable before this pandemic, and are now being affected disproportionally during this trying time. Many have lost their income, lost their insurance, and are having trouble meeting basic needs, paying bills, and affording critical medications.

 

In an effort to help, the residents and students of OU School of Community Medicine have organized this fundraiser in an attempt to meet the basic needs of our patients and their families. Donations will be used to help buy and deliver groceries and medications to these families. We will be working with our care managers and social workers to help identify which patients would benefit the most from assistance.

 

Here at OU-Tulsa, we pride ourselves as being a School of Community Medicine. Let us continue to practice Community Medicine and to show that we are not just in the business of treating disease, but also improving the health of our community—especially when it comes to meeting the needs of our patients. If you are able to, please consider donating to this endeavor to help our Tulsa neighbors in this time of need.