Covid-19 Response - Community Volunteers in Medicine

CVIM’s Ongoing Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

CVIM Services Are More Essential Now Than Ever

In these extraordinary times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, patients of Community Volunteers in Medicine (CVIM) are among the most vulnerable. During this unprecedented pandemic, our community healthcare center is open and serving the healthcare needs of patients of the Chester County Region in new and creative ways. And when our patients face frightening medical symptoms, we secure appropriate testing and treatment, while offering expert clinical advice and emotional support.

CVIM is working diligently to vaccinate all of our patients, and is now offering COVID-19 vaccines to members of the community 12 years old and older. No need to be a patient! Please call 610.836.5990 to schedule an appointment.

CVIM’s COVID-19 Pandemic Reponse Includes

Providing free medical care via innovative telehealth and careful onsite visits.

Educating patients about the coronavirus and safety protocols.

Providing access to COVID-19 testing and treatment.

Continuing to vaccinate our vulnerable patient population and eligible community members when doses are available.

Prioritizing behavioral health services during stressful times.

Dispensing life-sustaining medications to keep patients healthy.

Performing dental procedures with additional safety protocols and equipment.

Early in the pandemic, the CVIM healthcare volunteer corps – nearly 500 strong – was asked to stay home, stay safe, and help flatten the curve. Most routine patient care was delayed. The core staff provided essential services only and relied almost exclusively on telehealth to treat patients. Since then, we have gradually brought volunteers and patients back into the CVIM Healthcare Center, with major adjustments to the timing and spacing of medical and dental appointments, some facility and equipment upgrades, and new sanitizing protocols. Telehealth continues as a primary mode of care, with onsite visits prioritized based on patient needs.

We know the community need will grow and change as we all navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic. CVIM has served the community with access to free healthcare for 22 years, and we will maintain our health safety net role throughout this crisis and beyond.

COVID-19 Stories

Brian's Story - COVID-19 Testing

Brian called the Chester County COVID-19 hotline because he was experiencing frightening symptoms. COVID-19 testing was available only through a physician referral. He had no insurance and no primary care physician but required medical attention, so he was directed to CVIM. After telehealth triage confirmed he needed testing, we referred him to a test site at one of our hospital partners. Brian tested positive for COVID-19, had a rough week at home, and is now fully recovered.

Cynthia's Story - More than Meds

Cynthia came to CVIM to pick up her prescription refills. Living with diabetes and hypertension, she needed maintenance medications to stay healthy. Cynthia is raising her young grandson, and was recently unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She needed more than just her meds. Dr. Mary was able to give her a grocery gift card to help feed the family, and a thermometer in case someone at home gets sick.