Dismantling Systematic Barriers

For many in our community, the greatest threat to health isn’t just disease. It is the barriers that stand in the way of getting care. 59-year-old Ramon* came to CHRISTUS Point of Light Clinic with fatigue and shortness of breath. A simple check revealed low oxygen levels and a concerning heart murmur. “He urgently needed hospital evaluation, but getting there wasn’t simple,” said Elizabeth Ryan, Point of Light Clinic’s nurse practitioner.

Ramon spoke only Spanish, had no family nearby to help, and didn’t have transportation. “He was unsure how to navigate the hospital system, and with limited financial means, he worried how he would afford follow-up care,” said Ryan. “These are the barriers that too often turn treatable conditions into tragedies. At Point of Light, we are committed to removing these obstacles — one patient at a time.”

Recognizing Ramon’s vulnerable situation, Dr. Nancy Kwan, CHRISTUS Point of Light Clinic interim medical director, stepped in to assist. “She personally drove him to the emergency room, stayed with him to ensure he was checked in correctly, and coordinated directly with the hospital team to ensure smooth, continuous care.” Afterward, Kwan helped Ramon apply for a Gold Card, securing access to further evaluation and life-saving follow-up treatment.

“Because of this intervention, Ramon was not lost in the system,” said Ryan. “He received the care he needed and hope for a healthier future. Every day, patients like him face systemic barriers, and every day we work to dismantle them.”

*not patient’s real name