The U.S. healthcare system is known for its complexity and difficulty in navigation. Throughout the nation, care deserts and significant challenges obstruct access to quality healthcare services. Yet, as the old proverb suggests, it indeed takes a village to support better healthcare access. The health and well-being of individuals are driven largely by the resources and services available within their communities. Communities flourish when healthcare resources are both accessible and varied. Arkos Health aims to simplify this system within communities through well-coordinated healthcare “constellations,” guiding individuals towards healthier, happier lives.
As part of our enduring commitment to the communities we serve, we initiated a unique community health event in Tucson, Arizona, in collaboration with our partners, Clinica Medica Familiar and Arizona Complete Health. The event was thoughtfully planned to attract and engage approximately 70 of our members, providing them with a memorable and enriching experience.
By leveraging resources from Arkos Health and support from our health plan partner, Arizona Complete Health, we have improved health equity and access to preventative care services. Our selection of partners was driven by their established trust and familiarity within the local community. This approach significantly boosted member attendance and engagement.
Our principal partner, Clinica Medica Familiar, has built an impressive reputation within the local Hispanic community in Tucson. We specifically curated vendors for the event to reflect the local culture, featuring well-loved local businesses. This local theme resonated with the attendees, making them feel more connected and valued. The entertainment was chosen to inspire interest in healthy cultural activities like dance and music. We believe that intertwining healthcare with entertainment not only enhances the healthcare experience but also fosters an increased interest among individuals to access services and learn more about available healthcare resources.
The Tucson community health event kicked off with delicious, fresh local pastries from La Estrella Bakery and a welcome toy giveaway to all kids and families (even if their children were not attending). Lunch included locally famous Sonoran hot dogs by Alvaro’s Hot Dogs with cold drinks available throughout the event. Entertainment was provided by the popular Ballet Folklorico Los Mextucaz, whose vibrant performances captivated the participants. A raffle prize giveaway added an element of excitement as attendees received routine health screenings and educational materials on available healthcare services and resources. The event was conducted entirely in Spanish, the first language of the attending members, ensuring full engagement and understanding.
Our community health event in Tucson serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and culture, and a way to enhance healthcare engagement and access. By weaving together local resources, trusted partnerships, and culturally relevant experiences, we are building bridges for more connected communities to lead healthier lives. Together, we are making strides in addressing healthcare disparities and fostering an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Clinica Medica Familiar is a cornerstone of healthcare in Tucson, offering a broad spectrum of medical examinations. The facility is well-equipped to perform immigration physicals and sports physicals, ensuring active patients can participate safely in sports activities. Additionally, they offer yearly checkups to help patients maintain an informed understanding of their health status and catch potential health issues early. Arizona Complete Health has a proud history of serving Arizonans statewide through Medicare Advantage, Marketplace and AHCCCS. Their purpose is at the center of everything they do: Transforming the Health of the Community, One Person at a Time. Their core values are focus on the individual, commitment to whole health, and active local involvement.
A part of Arizona Complete Health, Wellcare by Allwell, offers access to high-quality, affordable, and culturally sensitive healthcare to more than 1.2 million Medicare Advantage members and 4.1 million PDP members across all 50 states. They offer benefits with every Medicare beneficiary in mind, including dental, hearing, vision services, transportation services, telehealth visits, wellness and fitness programs, in-home support services, and special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill.
Thanks to our partners, the Arkos Health team, and everyone who participated in making the Tucson health fair so meaningful!
For more information, visit https://arkoshealth.com/.
BY David Light
Published October 23, 2024 2:53PM