Greene County public health, along with Greene County Medical Center and the Foundation, have launched a new initiative called Healthy Rides. Healthy Rides is a program that will provide transportation for Greene County residents to medical appointments at Greene County Medical Center or McFarland Clinic in Jefferson at no cost. Residents are available to use these services now Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4:30 pm.
“I am so excited for Healthy Rides. Public health found there was a great need in the community for transportation to appointments,” said Greene County public health director Becky Wolf. “This new initiative eliminates the challenge of no transportation to appointments and allows some residents to get healthcare opportunities they weren’t able to receive before.”
Grow Greene County funded the vehicle that will be used for Healthy Rides. Drivers for the program will be volunteer based. The Greene County Medical Center Foundation is supporting the project through yearly maintenance of the vehicle along with providing funds to have marketing materials for the program developed. This program receives Elderbridge Agency on Aging funds as well.
Riders must be able to independently walk to and from the vehicle. No assistance will be provided and the vehicle is not handicap accessible. Riders must also be over the age of 18 or children must be accompanied by an adult.
Persons who are in need of transportation can call Greene County public health at 515-386-3228 to schedule.
Persons who are are interested in volunteering as a driver for Healthy Rides can contact public health as well. Volunteer drivers are an important component of the program. Training will be provided for all volunteer drivers.
Persons who want more information on Healthy Rides can visit www.gcmchealth.com/healthyrides
