Mass General
Massachusetts General Hospital
Homelessness & Dermatology: Promoting Better Wellness Through Skin Care with Dr. Jennifer Tan
Homelessness & Dermatology: Promoting Better Wellness Through Skin Care with Dr. Jennifer Tan
Homelessness & Dermatology: Promoting Better Wellness Through Skin Care with Dr. Jennifer Tan
Wednesday 4th December 2019
Dr. Jennifer Tan shares her efforts to provide vital dermatological care to homeless individuals through Boston’s Healthcare for the Homeless program.
34 minutes
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Get the buttons here!Dr. Jennifer Tan: Bridging Dermatology and Homelessness
I think that what keeps me motivated is that you see patients get better and you see patients who are experiencing homelessness get into housing, and it's incredibly rewarding to see patients do that.
Imagine facing the harsh realities of homelessness and not having access to basic skin care. Dr. Jennifer Tan, a passionate dermatologist, is working to change that. In this episode of 'Charged: Stories from the Women Leading Health Care', Dr. Tan opens up about the unique dermatological challenges that homeless individuals face and her efforts to provide them with essential care through Boston’s Healthcare for the Homeless program.
Homelessness in Massachusetts has more than doubled since 1990, creating significant barriers to medical care, especially dermatology. Dr. Tan explains that even those with insurance struggle to get dermatological appointments, making it even harder for the homeless population. Recognizing this public health crisis, she and her team started a monthly clinic, which has now expanded to twice a month, offering services like skin cancer screenings and general dermatologic care. Building trust with homeless patients is no easy feat, but Dr.
Tan believes it's crucial for effective treatment. She shares stories from her work at the clinics and highlights initiatives like 'Spa Days', where women experiencing homelessness receive relaxing treatments paired with educational workshops on skin health and self-care. These sessions not only improve their skin but also boost their overall well-being. Dr. Tan finds immense satisfaction in seeing her patients' health improve and witnessing them move into stable housing.
Her dedication to serving underserved populations is inspiring, and she encourages others to get involved in community healthcare efforts. Tune in to hear Dr. Tan's compelling journey and learn more about the vital work being done to support homeless individuals through dermatological care.