Impacting the Communities We Serve

Every year, Summa Health does more than provide clinically excellent care to patients. As one of the area’s top safety net providers, we also contribute to the health and well-being of our whole community, in big and small ways. This commitment, which we refer to as “community benefit” is a responsibility we hold in high regard. Our annual community benefit report— now renamed Community Impact Report to reflect its true purpose— demonstrates the vital difference we are making in patients’ lives.

The 2022 Community Impact Report shows that Summa Health provided more than $210.1 million in community benefit in 2022, an increase of 18 percent over 2021.

Here are some of the ways Summa Health is making a difference in the community:

• Providing charity care assistance:?In 2022,?Summa Health provided $11.5 million in charity care assistance, benefitting 9,633 patient encounters. This program allows patients with incomes that double the federal poverty income level, or who have a hospital bill that exceeds 25 percent of their gross annual income to apply for fully discounted charity care assistance. In addition, there is a sliding scale discount program for those who have an income between doubling and quadrupling the federal poverty income level.
• Supporting community health improvement services:?Throughout 2022, Summa Health provided more than $16.3 million to help fund vital health improvement activities such as free and low-cost health screenings, health education services and wellness programming.
• Seeking innovation through research: In 2022, Summa contributed a net cost of $8 million to explore potential new therapies, care coordination improvements and treatment options.
• Providing subsidized health services:?In 2022, the cost of our subsidized health services exceeded $50 million. These are clinical services that meet an identified community need and are provided despite a financial loss, including the Summa Health Senior Health Center, Summa Health Traumatic Stress Center, the Summa Health Dental Clinic and diabetes education efforts. ?

Summa Health is committed to making a positive impact on the community and is your partner in creating a healthier tomorrow for everyone.

I take immense pride in the collective efforts of our team and our remarkable ability to make a meaningful impact on those who need it the most. Our commitment to serving the community reflects not only our dedication but also our shared values that drive us to create positive change and contribute to the well-being of others. Together, we stand as a testament to the power of compassion and collaboration in making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Author:

Marlo Schmidt, System Director, Community Benefit