The University of Louisiana Monroe announced Tuesday, April 2, 2019, that it would provide healthcare screenings and education events to citizens in Union, Morehouse, Richland, East Carroll, West Carroll, Tensas, Madison and Bienville parishes for the next three years thanks to a $96,679 grant from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation.
The ULM Colleges of Health Sciences and Pharmacy will partner with Ochsner LSUHSC-Monroe (formerly E.A. Conway) and local community organizations to conduct healthcare screenings and educational events in the service area.
Screening for Life will also train area citizens to help manage the screenings and events. After the grant ends, ULM faculty will remain engaged with the Community Health Workers as they continue screenings and education in places where people gather, such as churches and beauty shops.
ULM President Nick J. Bruno said the Screening for Life grant will allow the university to expand its healthcare services to surrounding communities that rank high nationally for high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and obesity.
“Thanks to the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation, ULM will be able to make an impact with people who have a significant need for healthcare services,” Bruno said.
Michael Tipton, president of the Blue Cross Foundation, says that the ULM project stands out for its partnerships, “Our Foundation has positioned itself to support communities coming together to solve tough health problems. We commend this unique partnership of educators, healthcare providers and community leaders to improve the health and lives of those living in the northeast region.”
The three year program begins August 1, 2019.
To watch the presentation click here.