Toledo, Ohio

In Toledo, Ohio, city leaders, Mercy Health Partners, and ProMedica Health System launched CareNet to help bridge the gap between people in need and the city's many health resources.

CareNet provides eligible low-income residents — who do not qualify for government health programs — with coordinated, comprehensive access to health care. A membership card gives enrollees access to public and private primary care providers, 42 specialty areas including mental health and dental care, hospital services, medications, and transportation using the city's bus service. Many services are free. Applications in English and Spanish assure access to the city's minorities.

Since its inception in 2003, more than 12,000 Lucas County residents have turned to CareNet for help. During the enrollment process, CareNet has successfully referred more than 10 percent of the applicants to government health care programs. In the past four years, members have received about 100,000 services including primary, specialty, outpatient and hospital services, and transportation.