It was 102° outside when José Chibrás, MD, Medical Director at the new Downtown San Rafael Clinic, was finishing up with an older patient who is visually impaired, uses a cane, and whose companion doesn’t drive.
Concerned for her safety, he asked “How are you going to get home in this heat?” Her response: “I take the elevator – I live upstairs!”
A resident of the Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus, she has access to MCC’s new clinic located on the campus. In addition to Vivalon residents, the clinic also currently serves adults of all ages who live in the community-at-large, including San Rafael’s homeless population.
Services include primary care, immunizations, reproductive health planning, and referrals to specialists. Special emphasis is given to low-income older adults.
A Unique Model of Community Health in Marin
The Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus is a first-of-its-kind partnership among MCC, Vivalon, and Eden Housing. This innovative model, developed to meet the needs of Marin’s growing older adult population, integrates housing, services, social engagement, and vital health care – all under one roof.
“The Healthy Aging Campus, including our co-located clinic, is a significant step in increasing equitable access to needed resources for Marin’s most vulnerable residents – seniors, low-income individuals, and those without stable housing,” explains Nelson Branco, MD, Chair of MCC’s Board of Directors.
“It bridges gaps, strengthens communities, and demonstrates MCC’s commitment to a holistic vision of health and well-being.”
Watch the video about the new campus here.