To help address a significant health issue in Champaign and Clark counties, Community Mercy Health Partners is introducing an $850,000 mobile mammography unit.
The Ohio Department of Health’s most recent data show that breast cancer cases in Clark County are higher than both state and national averages. In ODH statistics from 2013, Clark County had 160 cases of breast cancer per 100,000 people. This rate is higher than the Ohio (118) and the national (123) rates. The Health Status Profile for Champaign County, updated in 2014, shows a rate (121) higher than the state average.
Sadly, most of these cases were not detected until the later stages of breast cancer. Compounding the problem is that so many people lack health insurance. And they often lack access to care. Obtaining an annual mammogram is a critical part of our battle.
Did you know?
· 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.
· About 85 percent will occur in women who have no family history.
· Breast cancer affects every age, race and socioeconomic status.
· Mammography is the best screening tool for early detection.
CMHP felt compelled to make mammograms accessible. For the past couple of years, they borrowed a mobile mammography vehicle from one of the Mercy Health hospitals in Cincinnati.
“But we knew that was not enough. That’s why we’re proud to announce we have purchased our own mobile mammography vehicle that will exclusively serve Clark and Champaign counties,“ said Matt Caldwell, CMHP president and CEO.
The new unit includes state-of-the-art 3D mammography screenings, which provide breast images that are more effective in finding abnormal tissue. Patients still have a choice of receiving a 2D mammogram on the mobile unit, providing flexible options for everyone.
This vehicle has been made possible through significant support from the Community Mercy Foundation. Net proceeds of the foundation’s recent Starlight Gala exceeded $195,000. The foundation also secured a commitment of $100,000 from the CMHP Employee CARE campaign. In addition, $75,000 was donated from the Mercy Health Foundation in Cincinnati and the Fifth Third Foundation. Another $20,000 was committed by Security National Bank, and others are planning to support the cause.
“We want to thank everyone who attended the Pink Starlight Gala or have supported this effort in other ways,” said Kristy Kohl McCready, executive director of the Community Mercy Foundation. “Their support of this life-saving effort will have far-reaching impact on residents in our region.”
Mobile unit in Urbana weekly
Mercy Memorial Hospital in Urbana will host the unit every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. To schedule an appointment at Mercy Memorial, call 937-328-8100.
Businesses and organizations can partner with CMHP by bringing mobile mammography services to their employees or community. Call the coordinator at 937-523-9330 for details.
The new unit is available to everyone for mammography screenings at the Springfield Regional Medical Center on Jan 13, Jan 16, Jan 23, and Jan 30, and around the community at these locations:
Upper Valley Mall (next to CVS)
1475 Upper Valley Pike, Springfield
Fri., Jan. 20
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Caring Kitchen
300 Miami St., Urbana
Tues., Jan. 24
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Rocking Horse Community Health Center
1 E Pleasant St, Springfield
Fri., Jan 27; Feb. 17; Apr. 14; Jul. 14; Oct. 13
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
New Carlisle Sports and Fitness Club
524 N. Dayton Lakeview Road, New Carlisle
Fri., Feb. 3
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Restored Life Ministries
1117 Innisfallen Ave, Springfield
Friday, Feb 24
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Southgate Baptist Church
2111 S Center Blvd, Springfield
Monday, March 13
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
No doctor order is needed for screenings. Mammograms are covered by most health insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider for exact coverage. No-cost screenings are available for those who qualify. Call 937-523-9332 to register. When you register, ask about our financial assistance options. Walk-ins are welcome, but not guaranteed. Be sure to bring a photo ID and insurance card with you. Appointments are approximately 15 minutes when you pre-register.
To register or for more information, call 937-523-9332 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Check before you get tested:
Patients should check with their insurance providers for exact coverage regarding 3D testing and interpretation prior to deciding which type of mammogram to choose. This will minimize surprise out-of-pocket costs. — Urbana Daily Citizen
