This is the mobile clinic that doctors will use to tend to homeless people in St. Peter's Square on World Day of the Poor. This year marks the fourth time this initiative has been taken by the Vatican, although it was suspended for two years during the pandemic. At its launch event was Archbishop Rino Fisichella.
LAURA DI BENEDETTO
Doctor
We offer complete screenings for those most in need, basic medical care and an initial check-up to understand any specific problem.
These healthcare workers in St. Peter's Square seek to walk with vulnerable persons who may be reluctant to go to hospitals and are often facing other problems. Together they've designed a system to go to a hospital with patients if they find urgent or concerning health problems.
LAURA DI BENEDETTO
Doctor
If we see that there is a need for a more thorough check-up or urgent care, we follow a protocol and the patient is sent to a hospital with whoever they are with. They are not left alone, absolutely no one is abandoned.
Although Italy has a large network of public hospitals, the organizers of this initiative say the project will help particularly homeless persons to receive medical care. Many people's experiences on the street have made them wary of others, and they need to learn how to trust again.
LAURA DI BENEDETTO
Doctor
They need their time. So sometimes we see that people ask us things but then they don't come back until the next day, or two days later.
FLASH
Because they need to trust.
Ahead of World Day for the Poor, the doctors behind this initiative say that thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations between homeless persons, many will trust them and visit the mobile clinic over the course of the weekend.
JM
