Undergraduate medical school health fair hepatitis screenings: Utilizing non-profit community organizations

Abstract

Background: Undergraduate medical schools serve a critical role in providing screenings to medically underserved populations through the use of health fairs. Non-profit community organizations (NPCO) often participate by providing local credibility, administrative resources, and technical knowledge. Here we present a three-year narrative of hepatitis B and C screening efforts to highlight the challenges and benefits of undergraduate medical school and NPCO partnerships. Methods: Hepatitis screenings were conducted at biannual health fairs in Harlem, New York from 2017 to 2019. Meeting minutes from post-event debriefings were analyzed to identify any overarching themes with NPCOs. Results: NPCOs share a common goal in working with the community to advance their access to medical care and treatment. Communication and prompt follow-up are critical to maintaining expectations between NPCOs and health fair organizers. Conclusions: NPCOs can play an important role in encouraging, outreaching, and even managing hepatitis screening initiatives in conjunction with medical school health fairs.

Keywords

• chronic
• health fairs
• hepacivirus
• hepatitis c
• mass screening
• medical students