Bozeman Health RV Parking Program

Description

Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center, a 140-bed hospital serving eleven counties in southwest Montana, had seen an increase in the number of patients traveling to Bozeman for care and sleeping in RVs in the hospital parking lot overnight, as many people struggled to find affordable hotel rooms or other lodging. To make the RV parking process more organized and efficient, Bozeman Health created an onsite RV parking program with officially-designated spaces on the hospital campus. The spots are available to anyone who has an appointment and is actively in care at Bozeman Health — for example, someone undergoing a series of treatments or appointments over the course of multiple days. Spaces are prioritized for patient use, but are also open when available to hospital staff members to use as temporary housing while they search for a more permanent living arrangement.

Services offered

There are two spaces officially dedicated to RV parking with an accessible power source, although overflow spots can be made available if needed. Spaces are free and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, with a typical maximum stay of two weeks. Patients and staff must register their vehicle with the hospital before parking so that the hospital can maintain security and keep track of which spaces are available. If someone parks their RV in a space without registering, hospital security can assist them with registration.

Results

Throughout the summer of 2023, at least one vehicle was camped in the RV parking spaces at all times.

Challenges

Hospital administrators say they have not experienced any significant barriers in implementing the program.

Replication

Program leaders say the all-inclusive structure of the RV parking program, which includes 24/7 registration support and security monitoring, has been important to its success. Setting clear rules and regulations for the program has also been helpful.

Contact Information

Erin Brester, External Communications
Bozeman Health
Bozeman Health Onsite RV Parking Program
406.414.1885
ebrester@bozemanhealth.org