Listen to this articleThe basics:
- Hackensack Meridian Health launches ‘Your Health On The Move‘ mobile screening units
- Free checks include blood pressure, glucose, vision, memory and more
- Vans will visit supermarkets, food pantries, community events
- Funded through the estate of longtime community health advocate Janice Mitchell-Vassar
In an effort to bring preventative care directly to underserved communities in New Jersey, Hackensack Meridian Health is rolling out two state-of-the art mobile screening centers that will offer free health checks and wellness services starting this fall.
As part of the newly announced “Your Health On The Move” initiative, the Edison-based health care provider’s new mobile fleet will hit the road and set up shop at accessible locations, such as supermarkets, food pantries, community resource centers and community events, from Bergen to Ocean counties.
According to HMH, the units will offer a wide range of screenings and assessments including:
- Blood pressure screening
- Glucose testing
- Visual acuity screening
- Memory and cognitive screening
- Overall health and cardiovascular assessment
Additionally, individualized education and information about health resources will be available. Primary care services are not provided, HMH said.
According to an HMH spokesperson, the on-board staff will include a registered nurse and health educator. There may also be a registered dietician, the media rep said.
Bringing screenings to you
Commenting on the program’s rollout, HMH President of Population Health Patrick Young said, “At Hackensack Meridian Health, we know that increased access to health care has never been more important. Preventative services like the ones we are offering through our Your Health On The Move wellness vans are key to managing chronic conditions and improving health outcomes.”
More info:
Your Health On The Move
“Too many people do not have a primary care doctor and miss out on regular health screenings. Our health care professionals are thrilled to be able to bridge gaps in care by bringing our team of experts into communities across New Jersey, giving everyone the ability to get important information about their health,” Young said.
According to the network, Your Health On The Move is funded through the estate of Janice Mitchell-Vassar, a longtime supporter of Hackensack Meridian Bayshore Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Health who died in 2019. She also left behind significant funding to support community health initiatives and programs for the visually impaired, HMH said.
Vassar’s attorney, Janice Miller, shared, “The legacy of Mrs. Vassar continues to have a lasting impact on her beloved community. She was a passionate advocate for accessible health care, particularly vision screenings for those in need. Having her name on the new community outreach vans is a truly special tribute that will continue her important work.”
HMH is also expanding access to health care with the opening of health and wellness centers throughout the state, hosting community health events and a Hospital From Home program.
