Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation

About Us

Founded as a Christian ministry of healing, Baylor Scott & White Health promotes the well-being of all individuals, families and communities. Baylor Scott & White Health aims to be a trusted leader, educator and innovator in value-based care delivery, customer experience and affordability.

Since Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation was established in 1978, we have distributed millions of dollars to support initiatives across Baylor Scott & White Health to advance this mission. Philanthropic support has a lasting impact on our ability to fund innovative research, train future leaders in healthcare, purchase advanced medical technology and offer programs that enhance care for patients and communities across North Texas.

The Opportunity

Homelessness remains a critical issue in Dallas, with approximately 3,700 individuals lacking stable housing as of 2024. Many of these individuals face chronic health conditions, untreated mental illness, or substance use disorders. Without consistent access to shelter, emergency departments (EDs) often become their only source of medical care. At Baylor University Medical Center - where 10% of the Riggs ED patients are unhoused - A Street Medicine initiative was launched in the summer of 2024 to address these challenges and disparities. 

Inspired by successful models across the country, our program brings healthcare directly to those in need. By adapting successful national best practices - which reported a 70% reduction in hospital readmissions and a 60% reduction in ED visits - to the unique needs of Dallas, our program aims to improve community health.  

Our Response

Meeting Our Patients Where They Are 

Our Street Medicine team delivers comprehensive compassionate care directly in the community, offering medical and psychiatric services, substance use treatment, medication, lab testing and inpatient consults. By building trust, the program fosters long-term engagement, stabilizes health and connects patients with essential resources and community partners.  

Training Future Physicians to Deliver Compassionate Care 

By inviting fellows-in-training from various specialties, we provide our graduate medical education students with a unique opportunity for hands-on training in underserved settings. This experience fosters a deeper understanding of healthcare delivery in challenging environments, preparing future healthcare providers to deliver compassionate care in any setting. 

Living Our Mission 

The Street Medicine program embodies our mission by delivering dignified, compassionate healthcare directly to those in need, transforming lives and building a healthier, more resilient Dallas. 

Real Impact

• Hospital stays reduced by nearly 40%, from 322 to 195 days after program enrollment
• Critical care provided to more than 585 unhoused patients 
• A 16% drop in emergency visits and hospital admissions within the first six months

How You Can Make a Difference

Street Medicine relies on philanthropy and is in existence today thanks to generous donors. Every dollar donated translates into care for our Dallas community.