Hurley Medical Center’s Patient Resource & Community Advocate

Hurley Medical Center is advancing the well-being of Flint and Genesee County communities through Patient Resource & Community Advocate, Tarnesa Martin, RN, BSN, who focuses on addressing the barriers that prevent or delay vulnerable patients from seeking care. Data collected by the medical center revealed many residents in surrounding zip codes are disproportionately affected by chronic illness (heart disease, diabetes, etc.), lack of transportation, food insecurity, racial disparities and provider mistrust.

To remove barriers and make the community healthier, Martin frequently engages with community groups, minority-owned businesses, faith-based organizations and other trusted entities serving minority populations outside of the hospital to better understand barriers to care. While most of the work is done out in the community, Martin also assists with educating Hurley resident physicians on patient trust-building, communication and health literacy. Her strong relationships with the hospital staff allow her to provide direction to patients as they navigate acute care needs and challenging diagnoses. 

“When the MHA called for hospital CEOs to sign a pledge to commit to reducing healthcare disparities, our CEO, Melany Gavulic, chose a boots on the ground strategy and found an amazing warrior in Nurse T,” said Hurley Service Line Administrator Catherine Metz. “She has made an incredible difference in this community ever since.”