UF Strengthens Outreach Medical Programs to Combat Declining Health Assistance Access

As Floridians face increasing financial strains, health care professionals at the University of Florida (UF) are stepping up to provide essential services. Their goal is to help residents navigate the high costs of maintaining good health.

Recent studies reveal that nearly half of all households in Florida struggle to afford basic needs like food and rent. In such circumstances, health care often gets pushed aside. The United Way’s ALICE report highlights these challenges, showing that many are finding it tough to make ends meet.

To address this, UF is enhancing its health services. One standout offering is the UF Health Cancer Center, which operates a mobile cancer screening bus. This bus travels to remote areas in Florida, ensuring that individuals in underserved regions have easier access to vital health screenings. It offers services like mammograms, as well as screenings for colon, prostate, and cervical cancers.

The Mobile Cancer Screening Connector is unique, reaching communities that might not have nearby health facilities. These mobile services aim to boost cancer screening rates in rural areas, where statistics show that mammogram rates in many counties fall below the state average.

“By bringing various cancer screening services to one location, we aim to encourage families to come together and get screened,” said Ramzi Salloum, Ph.D., associate director of community outreach and engagement at the Cancer Center.

In addition to cancer screenings, UF is making strides in improving access to pharmacy care across Florida. They are engaging pharmacy students to help reach underserved populations. “We want our students to understand how impactful pharmacists can be in these communities,” said Stacey Curtis, a clinical associate professor at UF’s College of Pharmacy.

Furthermore, UF is focused on enhancing dental care for those in need. The Saving Smiles Program promotes oral health for children and operates a Mobile Dental Outreach program to provide screenings for individuals with disabilities.