Mobile mammography unit to address gaps in access to care

A new US collaboration will see the launch of  a mobile mammography unit that aims to address gaps in access to care.

Part of a larger mobile clinic, a converted RV equipped with a mammography unit aims to encourage improved uptake of regular screenings for people who would normally have to travel for their screenings.

The unit has been launched by Blue Plus, the health maintenance organisation (HMO) affiliate of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross), and Odam Medical Group.

The mobile clinic has been bringing the same services offered in a primary care clinic to homes in 16 Central Minnesota counties since 2022.

“We know access to reliable transportation is a major barrier to care, especially in rural areas of the state and among immigrant populations,” said Chris Reiten, vice president of Medicaid at Blue Cross.

“The feedback from patients who have received care from the Mobile Clinic is incredibly positive, so we are thrilled to build on our relationship with Odam Medical Group to increase access to important preventive care services and meet even more Minnesotans where they are.”

“Early detection for breast cancer can vastly improve health outcomes,” said Dr. Robert Larbi-Odam, founder of Odam Medical Group.

“Adding mammograms to our services will make it easier for patients to get their recommended screenings, especially in counties where they would otherwise need to travel long distances for an appointment.”