We strive to bring true value to our vision of enhancing the lives of those we serve. Yale New Haven Health sponsors programs and services that improve the health of people in our communities and increase access to care. These activities are critical to our mission and are the basis of tax exemption as a not-for-profit organization.
Medical care, chronic disease awareness and community service are just a few of the ways Yale New Haven Health gives back to the people we serve. Each of our hospitals sponsors, develops and participates in programs and services that address each community's distinct needs.
In 2019, we provided $741.1 million in financial and in-kind contributions. The dollars represent an investment in our local communities. More importantly, these tremendous activities impacted the lives of 944,869 people. But just how many is 944869? That many people, standing shoulder to shoulder, would extend over 200 miles from Boston to New York City.
In addition to the $741.1 million provided in community benefit and community building activities, including $578 million in Medicaid shortfalls and free and charity care (at cost), our hospitals provided $373.2 million in bad debt and Medicare shortfalls.
We are proud to be part of the communities we serve and want to show how we continue to "give back" through an accounting of our community benefit work for Yale New Haven Health. Last year, Yale New Haven Health managed $741.1 million in financial and in-kind contributions through five wide-ranging programs: Guaranteeing Access to Care; Promoting Health and Wellness; Advancing Careers in Health Care; Creating a Healthier Community and Building Strong Neighborhoods.