Hackensack Meridian Health launched a new community health initiative, ‘Your Health On The Move,’ to expand access to free, lifesaving health screenings for residents across New Jersey. Starting this month, two state-of-the-art mobile health vans will travel to communities from Bergen to Ocean counties, with a specific focus on reaching underserved populations.
The program aims to bridge existing gaps in health care access by bringing preventative services directly to people in their neighborhoods. The mobile wellness offices will be stationed at convenient locations such as supermarkets, community centers, homeless shelters, and food pantries. No appointments are necessary for the services offered.
According to Patrick Young, president of Population Health at Hackensack Meridian Health, the initiative is a key part of the network’s mission.
“Too many people do not have a primary care doctor and miss out on regular health screenings,” Young said. “Our health care professionals are thrilled to be able to bridge gaps in care by bringing our team of experts into communities across New Jersey, giving everyone the ability to get important information about their health.”
The vans will provide a range of free services, including:
- Blood pressure screenings
- Glucose testing
- Visual acuity screening
- Memory and cognitive screening
- Overall health and cardiovascular assessment
- Individualized education on health resources
This new initiative is made possible by the generous legacy of Janice Mitchell-Vasser, a longtime supporter of Hackensack Meridian Bayshore Medical Center. Vasser, who passed away in 2019, left significant funding in her estate to support community health programs, particularly those for the visually impaired.
Janice Miller, Vassar’s attorney, noted the tribute to her client. “The legacy of Mrs. Vassar continues to have a lasting impact on her beloved community,” Miller said. “Having her name on the new community outreach vans is a truly special tribute that will continue her important work.”
