Focus: HOPE, a Detroit-based nonprofit organization, is committed to providing free mobile health services and mammograms to its food centers throughout the year until fall. The nonprofit has partnered with Wayne State Mobile Health Units and Ascension Michigan to increase access to healthcare resources in the community.
The mobile health units, staffed by registered nurses and medical assistants, offer screenings for diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Additionally, Ascension Michigan will provide mammograms to screen for breast cancer. These mobile services will be available once a month with no eligibility requirements.
According to CEO of Focus: HOPE Portia Roberson, these services are crucial for the well-being of the community and aim to address the disparities in healthcare access faced by marginalized communities. A 2018 survey conducted by the University of Michigan’s Detroit Metro Area Communities Study found that although most Detroiters reported good health, one in five rated their health as fair or poor. Nearly 10% mentioned they could not afford copayments or prescriptions, and less than a third reported difficulty accessing the type of healthcare they desired.
Interested individuals can receive a mammogram with Ascension Michigan by registering by calling 313-494-4600. Mobile mammogram services will be available on Mondays at various locations including Westside Food Center, Eastside Food Center, and Inkster Food Center. For more information or to contact Nushrat Rahman email nrahman@freepress.com or call 313-348-7558 Follow her on Twitter @NushratR
