On August 5, students and faculty from ϲ’s School of Nursing participated in the Healthier Mamaroneck Access to Care Health Fair, an event hosted by Open Door Family Medical Center. The fair offered a range of free health services and resources aimed at improving access to care for underserved populations in the Mamaroneck area.
Attendees of the fair had the opportunity to receive comprehensive health screenings, including tests for blood pressure, asthma, body mass index (BMI), vision, and diabetes. Additionally, they had access to confidential HIV testing, COVID-19 vaccinations, and a wealth of wellness resources from a variety of community-based organizations.
Lucia Alfano, EdD, MA, RN, director of Clinical Affairs at the School of Nursing, emphasized the importance of these health fairs in bridging gaps in healthcare access. “Bringing healthcare to underserved communities is critical in addressing the health disparities we see. Many individuals in these communities are either not connected to primary care or are reluctant to seek prenatal care due to concerns about their immigration status. This event is designed to reach those who need it most,” Alfano explained.
Alfano also highlighted the value of student involvement in such community events. “Participating in community health fairs provides our students with invaluable experience. They learn to communicate and engage with vulnerable populations effectively. They were able to connect them and educate them in real time using evidence-based practices and information provided by the National Institute of Health and local resources. Our students gained a deeper understanding of the significance of community health nursing,” she added.
ϲ was not only actively involved in the fair but also served as a sponsor, alongside a coalition of local organizations and institutions including the Alzheimer’s Association, Community Resource Center, Hispanic Federation, Larchmont Mamaroneck Lions Club, MVP Health Care, The National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Rye YMCA, White Plains Hospital, Yale New Haven Health Greenwich Hospital, and various government entities, including the Offices of State Senator Shelley B. Mayer and Assemblyman Steve Otis, and Westchester County Government, represented by County Executive George Latimer and Dr. Sherlita Amler, Commissioner of the Department of Health.
This collaborative effort underscores the Mercy’s commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and addressing health disparities across the region.