JaxCareConnect is an innovative initiative of the Duval Safety Net Collaborative designed to connect uninsured neighbors more efficiently to available health care options. The Collaborative currently includes six free and charitable clinics (Agape Community Health Center, Community Health Outreach, Muslim American Social Services Clinic, Mission House, Sulzbacher, and Volunteers in Medicine). We Care Jacksonville, Inc. is serving as comprehensive fiscal agent for the project. These nonprofits have worked together as referral partners over the last two decades.

In recent years, the need has arisen to strengthen and formalize the partnership to include a universal eligibility application and intake system, navigation of public healthcare options, and individual case management for neighbors in need of access to healthcare. Rather than duplicating efforts at each partner site, this project will leverage shared resources for true collective impact.

JaxCareConnect will support an efficient, streamlined, and systematic way to link uninsured persons to high-quality healthcare in a primary care medical home. The project’s team of Patient Health Advocates will work individually with each patient to guide them through the eligibility process, examine and help overcome barriers to achieving optimal health, aid with public health applications they may qualify for, and provide ongoing support along their healthcare journey. Over the course of the pilot project, the team will also develop “always on” web-based tools that allow for the eligibility screening process to begin whenever a prospective patient needs it most.

Through outreach, community education, and evolving partnerships across the full continuum of care, JaxCareConnect aims to better inform individuals about their healthcare options so that all Duval County residents have access to comprehensive primary care – regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.