Ed Martin, M.D.

For more than 22 years Dr. Ed Martin has provided free medical services to guests and residents of Amos House.  The physician, who is 54 years old and Chief of Medical Staff and Clinical Services at the Eleanor Slater Hospital in Cranston, has helped thousands of homeless persons with skill and compassion.

Dr. Martin became involved with Amos House after recognizing the rising need for affordable healthcare. “I was aware Amos House was trying to provide various services for people,” he said, “but the medical component was missing.  I thought I could help out.”

Since then, once a week during his lunch break, he volunteers at Amos House.  Over the years Dr. Martin has provided vital services from conducting medical exams for people seeking jobs to helping homeless persons with mental illnesses access medication.  He also examines ACE Program students to check for any unmet medical needs. At times, he refers patients to specialists that provide urgent care.

“I have seen the devastating consequences of the lack of universal health insurance in our country and the devastating impact of homelessness,” he shared.  Dr. Martin also explained that many serious ailments might have been prevented with earlier intervention. 

Dr. Martin is also a physician with the National Guard.  Stories shared by wounded soldiers returning from Iraq and homeless persons fuel his public service.  “At Amos House I really feel like I’m part of a great group of people, both staff and guests,” he said.