Hartford HealthCare's Medical Mission: Our largest health event

Hartford HealthCare held its second annual system-wide Medical Mission providing access to care for communities throughout Connecticut.

Adapted from a practice launched in 2015 at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, before it joined Hartford HealthCare, Medical Mission creates an environment where people of all ages can receive a medical exam, speak to specialists in behavioral health and physical therapy, pick up a new winter coat and enjoy a hearty meal. All services are free, and no insurance is required.

“To support those in need, we have 84 pallets of more than 23,500 coats, boots, hats, gloves, and glasses to our seven Medical Mission sites across the State of Connecticut. This incredible effort wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our more than 4,000 volunteers and partners who share our vision of equitable access to healthcare,” said Jeffrey Flaks, president and CEO of Hartford HealthCare.

Last year’s first system-wide event was a huge success, and we cared for more than 2,000 people of all ages. Some urgent health situations were discovered, and those patients were rushed to one of our hospitals for advanced care. We have added a location this year and hope to share the gift of quality healthcare with even more people.

Almost 4,000 volunteer medical staff and colleagues from Hartford HealthCare participate in the Medical Mission, offering such free services as:

• Behavioral health screenings
• Community services
• Food and clothing
• Eyeglasses
• Haircuts
• Lab tests
• Medical screenings for diabetes and cholesterol
• Nutritional counseling
• Pediatric services
• Prescriptions
• Vaccinations

Community organizations also participate in the event, connecting participants with a variety of helpful services.