Near North Campaign Targets New Patients

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As the country debates healthcare reform, Chicagos Near North Health Service Corporation (NNHSC) is launching A Call to Health, A Call to Action, a community outreach drive targeted at enrolling at least 2,500 new patients in need of a medical home. The goal--- to empower and equip underserved Chicagoans with the resources to take charge of their health.

When Near North was established in Chicagos Cabrini-Green neighborhood in 1966, it was a response to the lack of primary healthcare services in the community. It is unfortunate that too many people, then and now, either do not have adequate healthcare options, or they have to choose between paying for basic life necessities or medical attention, says Berneice Mills-Thomas, NNHSCs Executive Director. Near North was originally spearheaded by local residents and neighborhood organizations to address this very challenge with a new, community-based healthcare model.

Now celebrating their 45 year anniversary, Near North has broadened its response, offering medical care at eight full service centers and three supportive sites covering 17 neighborhood communities in the north, west and south sides of Chicago. In 2010, over 35,000 patients of all backgrounds and healthcare needs visited Near North centers.

I was born and raised in the neighborhood, and my mother had taken me to the old Komed center as a child, says Valerie Moore, Near North patient and mother of two. Two years ago I lost my job but did not qualify for a medical card. So, a few months ago, I brought my 7 year-old son to the new Komed Holman center to see a dentist. I was so impressed with the new facility and professionalism of the staff that I am now coming in for my own needs. Ive gone downtown for doctor and dental services, and Near North offers the same, if not better services right here in the community.

Now through June, Near North is committed to reach 2,500 new patients, through the A Call to Health, A Call to Action campaign, which will focus on a multi-channel outreach plan. During the enrollment drive, Near North will be actively partnering with a series of community churches, organizations, and businesses to participate in existing initiatives and host healthcare enrollment events. Community members will not only be able to register on-site as a new patient, free health screenings will also be available at targeted events.

In the spirit of the A Call to Health, A Call to Action initiative, Near North is hosting a Rededication Celebration, on May 14, 2011 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, at its Komed Holman Health Center, 4259 S. Berkeley Avenue on Chicagos south side.

Our mission is to save lives, and we do it every day, says Mills-Thomas. We see patients who havent visited a doctor in years for a variety of reasons, including financial hardship. Our community outreach programs provide one-on-one screenings and examinations, which result in a proactive medical plan.

Near Norths core medical services are internal medicine, pediatrics and womens health. Specialty services include dentistry, ophthalmology and podiatry. Near Norths centers are also recognized for their free healthcare initiatives including: Diabetes Collaborative; Cooking Classes, HIV/AIDS education; Health Fairs; and Mens Health Week. Comprehensive services also include social services, substance abuse, family support services, youth programs, and domestic violence. For more information, visit www.nearnorthhealth.org.

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