Evolution of Medical and Community Resource Services Within a Student-Run Clinic Following COVID-19 Pandemic

With redistribution of resources and time during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thrive Bridge Clinic altered its focus, alongside the changes in the healthcare system and needs of the population. This paper describes how the Thrive clinic services have been altered between 2019 and 2022 as a result of COVID-19.

Data was collected via retrospective chart review of patient encounters.

Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, utilization of acute medical triage decreased while community resources requests increased. Of the community resources requested, all services increased with the largest increase being transportation. Primary care, specialty medical care, legal assistance, and substance use were additional topics commonly discussed.

Social support and community resource requests now act as the primary focus of the Thrive Bridge Clinic following the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies can focus on better understanding whether these resources truly reflect patient needs and how often resources that we refer are being utilized.