Perham Health and Elevate Are Removing Barriers to Better Living

Jean Tobkin, RN, Elevate Health Coach

Aging doesn’t have to be so difficult. Even when it feels isolating or challenging, adults in our local communities are finding support through Jean Tobkin, RN, Elevate Health Coach – helping them age well regardless of background, ability, or circumstance.

More Than Medical Care

One of the most impactful aspects of Jean’s role is serving as a vital connection beyond medical care. Based inside the Perham Clinic, Jean meets patients where they are – not only medically, but socially and emotionally.

In doing so, Jean helps remove everyday barriers by connecting patients with the resources they need to thrive.

“Basically, I work with our clinic providers and nurses to connect patients with medical and community resources,” Jean explains.

Many health challenges are tied to everyday barriers like food access, transportation, social isolation, and financial strain. By addressing those needs, patients are better positioned to manage their health and avoid more serious complications.

Turning Barriers into Better Outcomes

Jean helps coordinate care by helping patients schedule appointments, navigate referrals to specialists, and stay on track with treatment plans.

Medication is a frequent challenge, especially for patients without insurance or with limited financial resources. “Patients come into the clinic not able to afford medications,” Jean says. “So, we try to get them connected to programs to see what we can do to help reduce the cost.” Through assistance programs and donated medication initiatives, some patients can receive their prescriptions at no cost, at least temporarily, while longer-term solutions are arranged.

Another barrier that Jean helps patients with is access to medical equipment. Elevate operates an equipment lending program, offering items such as wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds. These donated devices are checked for safety and provided to patients who might otherwise go without.

When Basic Needs Impact Health

Mindi Larson, program manager for Elevate, proudly displays the Mobility Market’s available equipment free use.

A significant part of Jean’s work involves identifying gaps that may not surface during a typical medical visit. Food insecurity and transportation are common challenges Jean encounters.

“Anyone experiencing food insecurity can receive help through Elevate,” Jean says. She connects patients with local and regional food banks, and for patients who need immediate assistance, Elevate provides emergency food boxes directly at the clinic. “We take those food boxes out to their vehicles when they leave so they have something to take with them,” says Jean.

For others, the need is more ongoing. Patients who are unable to cook may be connected with meal delivery services like Meals by Wheels. Nutritional supplements, like protein shakes, are also made available through partnerships with local food programs to support patients dealing with malnutrition or chronic illness.

Missed appointments can quickly lead to worsening health conditions. “We help people with transportation services too, which reduces missed appointments and hopefully decreases emergency department visits and hospital stays,” Jean explains.

Addressing Isolation and Building Connection

Social isolation can have a profound impact on well-being. “Social interaction is one big thing that we try to help people with,” Jean says.

Programs like senior lunch gatherings, group activities, volunteer opportunities, and educational sessions offer patients a chance to connect with others in meaningful ways. These Elevate gatherings are designed to be accessible to everyone, and most events are free.

For families experiencing memory loss or dementia, Elevate offers specialized programming and a resource folder to help guide them forward.

‘Ask Jean’ monthly event at Connections within the PACC.

From support groups to a community choir and memory cafés, these initiatives provide both education and emotional support. “It’s there for any family that might be dealing with a loved one with memory loss to know that they’re not alone,” Jean says.

Caregiver burnout is another concern Jean frequently sees. By connecting families with respite options and support networks, Jean helps ensure caregivers can maintain their own health while caring for others.

Real-Life Impact

The impact of this work is often felt in small, deeply meaningful moments. Jean recalls patients leaving the clinic with food for the first time in days or receiving gas cards that allow them to visit a loved one. “One patient said the first thing she’s going to do is go see her mom with the gas card,” Jean shares.

In other cases, the support is more complex – helping someone secure heating assistance during the winter or ensuring a patient receives essential medication.

“Jean’s role is essential because she removes the barriers that keep people from focusing on their health,” says Chuck Hofius, CEO. “By connecting patients to the right resources at the right time, she helps them live healthier lives and remain independent in their own homes. That kind of support changes lives.”

Mindi Larson, program manager for Elevate added this about Jean, “Jean’s work is critical to what we’re trying to do here at Elevate. We couldn’t do any of this without her. She’s a vital piece to our program and we’re so thankful for her.”

A Whole-Person Model for Healthier Communities

After four years in the role, Jean has seen firsthand how addressing social needs can transform health outcomes. “It’s helped improve mental and physical health for people,” Jean says. “It’s helped reduce missed appointments and decreased emergency department and hospital visits.”

At its core, Jean’s position is about connection – linking patients to services, to community, and support beyond the clinic.

“The biggest impact I’m hoping for is that patients really feel supported and connected,” Jean says. “Just knowing that we’re helping out, trying to keep them as independent and at home as long as possible, is a real joy to see.”