Mok Thoong Chong, Shanele S. Shimabuku, Chris Lai Hipp, Cassie L. Kim
Objective: To improve clinical outcomes and health access by providing community health education and wellness screening to the under-represented Marshallese population in Hawaii.
Methods: Three student pharmacists and a faculty member formed the Marshallese Mobile Screening Clinic Project (MMSCP) team. The team traveled to specific churches and
community events to offer health education and screenings. Marshallese interpreters helped the participants to complete questionnaires and consent forms before they began the screening process. Student pharmacists then conducted Hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure and cholesterol tests and the results were interpreted to the participants. If a participant was diagnosed with symptoms of diabetes, abnormal blood pressure or cholesterol levels were identified, they were referred to the Diabetes Education Program at Hilo Bay Clinic for medical treatment. Student pharmacists collaborated with Hilo Bay Clinic professionals to educate those patients on the importance of medication use and
adherence. A follow up plan every three months would help to monitor clinical outcomes.
Results: Results from the initial evaluation of the MMSCP project were positive. Thirty-four participants received free health care screenings during the first six months of the project of which 59% requested a formal referral to Hilo Bay Clinic for health services. Half of the total participants did not receive any health care services regularly prior to this project. Demographic data revealed that 50% of the participants were above the age of 40.
Conclusion: The MMSCP project is able to empower the Marshallese to lead healthier lives and seek out medical care at the onset of illness when it is most treatable. This
project is a clear example of how creativity, partnership, and careful planning can allow pharmacists and student pharmacists to have a direct impact on an underserved population’s access to health care.
