As the founder of AFFORDABLE, a software-based nonprofit dedicated to reducing barriers to healthcare access, Warren Campbell, a TPP Changemaker, realized COVID-19 could be a potential health hazard in the US as early as February.
Then, something unexpected happened that hit close to home: the grandparents of one of his developers were on the Grand Princess cruise ship when COVID-19 was identified. The elderly couple were quarantined for four days on the ship before being transferred to a military base in San Diego.
They were confined to their room for days and only allowed 20 minutes outside each day, and as of this writing, are still under quarantine. “We knew then that we had to mobilize and focus our efforts on COVID-19,” said Campbell.
And mobilize he did. In swift response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Campbell and his team created www.covid19affordhealth.org to support the medical care of patients affected by the virus. According to Campbell, the site has multiple purposes, including providing Johns Hopkins University’s COVID-19 tracker, links to reliable sources and guides for screening and seeking medical attention, a COVID-19 news feed, which provides up-to-date information on the financial impact of COVID-19, and descriptions of how to apply for aid for COVID-19 treatment.
“We feel strongly that these efforts are necessary,” says Campbell. “Large organizations, nonprofits, and governmental agencies are focused on the logistical management of the healthcare system. Improving our healthcare capacity is crucial for patients needing respiratory support. Unfortunately, the support bill H.R.6201 – Families First Coronavirus Response Act will cover the cost of testing, but not the costs associated with treatment by their healthcare provider. Given the recent recession in the economy, many losing their jobs, and millions lacking healthcare insurance, there is a massive lapse in financial support for their care. Financial fears are a barrier to seeking appropriate medical care, which raises infection mortality and undermines societal quarantine efforts.”
To further address this issue, Campbell and his team created the COVID-19 Treatment Relief Fund, which supports those affected by COVID-19 who cannot pay for their treatment. “We have funds available to help people … if anyone has a deductible, copayment, or prescription for treatment, send an email to [email protected] and we will use available funds to support your care!” With the support of student developers from The Ohio State University, The University of Maryland, and Ohio University, they will be able to allocate these funds effectively through their AFFORDABLE software.
Donations are being accepted for the COVID-19 Treatment Relief Fund, and according to Campbell, official sponsorships of the campaign start at a $25.00 contribution. Campbell also encourages people to share their campaign on social media to raise awareness.
“We hope people sharing or contributing to the COVID-19 Treatment Relief Fund will bring attention to this issue and make a positive impact,” says Campbell.
All of us at TPP thank Campbell and his team for the incredible work they’re doing to address the COVID-19 crisis. Campbell’s organization is a remarkable example of a group of committed individuals who quickly and successfully pivoted their project to meet the evolving needs of the pandemic. His story is one of a multitude of efforts we here at TPP have seen emerge as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, which we will be sharing on our blog in the coming days. To share your story, please email Lauren at [email protected]. We want to hear from you!
For more information on AFFORDABLE’S COVID-19 Treatment Relief Fund, visit: www.covid19affordhealth.org
