The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #63106

Rachel M. Mayo, PhD¹, Linda Crew, RN, MBA², Windsor W. Sherrill, PhD¹, Paula Watt, FNP, PhD², and Will W. Mayo, MPH². (1) Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, 524 Edwards Hall, Clemson, SC 29634, (864)656-7435, rmayo@clemson.edu, (2) Joseph F. Sullivan Center, Clemson University, 101 Edwards Hall, Clemson, SC 29634

Background. Many barriers prevent minority women in rural areas from being screened for breast and cervical cancer. Methods. A partnership was formed to screen low-income women in a Southern Appalachian area, with particular focus on Latina populations. A lay health advisor model was utilized, and 45 LHAs were trained to participate in the program. Results. 456 women were screened for breast and cervical cancer, 1943 received health education, and 59 health professions students participated. Conclusion. A successful partnership model that builds upon the strengths and assets of partners, provides culturally competent services, and benefits from continual project evaluation will be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

1)List 5 unique barriers that rural, Latinas face in accessing health care;
• Articulate how a Lay Health Advisor Model is used to recruit women for breast cancer screening;
• Apply a partnership model for addressing the breast cancer screening needs of rural Latinas.

Keywords: Access to Health Care, Breast Cancer

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.