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Mobile Mammography Initiative

Bridging Breast Cancer Disparities: University Hospital’s Mobile Mammography Initiative

University Hospital in Newark has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative in its ongoing battle against breast cancer disparities. With the launch of a new $1.2 million state-of-the-art mobile mammography bus, the hospital is taking proactive steps to bring essential health care services directly to the doorstep of those it serves.

This innovative bus, equipped with cutting-edge breast imaging technology, aims to address the critical need for screenings among underserved women in Essex County. Featuring a bilingual care team and a private examination room, the mobile unit is designed to enhance accessibility and comfort for patients. By offering on-the-go screenings, University Hospital seeks to reduce the incidence of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses within the community.

CEO Ed Jimenez emphasizes the hospital’s commitment to bridging health care gaps, stating, “We aspire to reach more individuals and ultimately save more lives with this new unit, complete with a dedicated care team and 3D mammography capabilities.”

The significance of this initiative is underscored by the alarming rates of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses in Newark. Despite efforts to increase screening rates, many individuals still face barriers to accessing preventative care. As a safety-net institution, University Hospital often encounters patients seeking treatment for breast cancer at advanced stages, where survival rates plummet.

Katrina Schirmacher, Executive Director of the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey at University Hospital, highlights the impact of the program, noting that over 27,500 medically underserved women have been screened thus far. The mobile mammography bus is poised to strengthen outreach efforts, connecting with more residents for screenings and offering additional services to the community.

This ambitious project has received generous support, including a $500,000 investment from the Connie Dwyer Breast Cancer Foundation and a $400,000 grant from the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey. Connie Dwyer emphasizes the importance of the initiative in enhancing access to quality screenings among vulnerable women, envisioning a healthier and more equitable future for all.

With its state-of-the-art technology and dedicated care team, University Hospital’s mobile mammography bus represents a significant step forward in the fight against breast cancer disparities. By bringing screenings directly to underserved communities, this initiative has the potential to save lives and promote a brighter, healthier future for Newark and beyond.

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