Research Mentor Name

Joel Appel

Research Mentor Email Address

jappel@med.wayne.edu

Institution / Department

Internal Medicine

Document Type

Research Abstract

Research Type

healthimprovement

Level of Research

no

Abstract

Current literature shows Hispanic/Latinx populations in the U.S. face health inequities. Amigos Medicos (AM) Clinic, located in Southwest Detroit, is a student-run free clinic that addresses these issues through preventive health screenings. We hosted a health fair in 2022 and invited other student organizations in efforts to connect the community to resources. Our aim is to identify specific barriers faced by our population in receiving health care and to identify the impact of participation in the fair on those organizations. One survey was administered to patients attending clinic that identified health barriers they face. The other survey was administered to student organizations four months after the fair to assess representatives’ experiences. Data administered to organizations showed all (100%) student organization representatives believed the health fair brought increased awareness to the Detroit population about their respective student organization. The most identified limitations reported by the organizations in serving the community were financial constraints (43%) followed by limited space/resources (14%) and lack of volunteers (14%). Our response rate for the survey administered at the clinic is approximately 38% and data collection is ongoing. 66.67% of patients reported they do not have health insurance. 44% reported visiting a community clinic and 22% visit the Emergency Department. 22% indicated that lack of health insurance, language barriers, lack of transportation, or long wait-time for appointments increased the difficulty of accessing healthcare. Our research not only demonstrates unique challenges in working with Hispanic/Latinx populations but also the needs and barriers faced by the community.

Disciplines

Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Health Services Research | Medicine and Health Sciences

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