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The outside of the Heritage Community Clinic
The outside of the Heritage Community Clinic [Natalie LaFleur | WOUB]

Ohio Heritage Clinic offers free health screenings for un-insured women

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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — The Ohio Heritage Clinic offers free health screenings monthly for under or uninsured women. The screenings include mammograms, pelvic exams and breast exams. 

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, about one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, but early detection greatly improves survival. 

The U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends women over the age of 40 should receive yearly mammograms to catch cancer diagnoses early.  

Compared to the rest of Ohio, the population of Appalachia is generally less insured. The Health Policy Institute of Ohio states the poverty rate in Appalachia is higher as well. A lack of insurance makes yearly health screenings for women oftentimes unaffordable. 

An imaging truck sits outside of the clinic for mammography
An imaging truck sits outside of the clinic for mammography [Natalie LaFleur | WOUB]
The Ohio Heritage Clinic offers screenings for women who are in financial burdens. If abnormalities are observed, the clinic transfers the patient to a facility that offers more advanced care while working with them to navigate financial hurdles. 

Carrie Johnson, a registered nurse at the clinic, encourages women to at least give them a chance, even if they’re hesitant. 

“I think that sometimes people are leery when they hear free clinics and things like that. I think that they would be very surprised with the quality of care that’s provided here,” Johnson said. “So, I think if people are uninsured, if they’re avoiding providers or medical care because of cost, there are resources available in our community.” 

The next clinic will be held on Aug. 13 at the Ohio Heritage Clinic located on Ohio University’s campus. For more information, the clinic can be reached at (740) 593-2432.