Maryland General Encourages Community to “Take a Loved One to the Doctor”

Each year on the third Tuesday of September, Maryland General Hospital invites community residents to Take a Loved One to the Doctor -- an effort to encourage the community to take charge of their health. The event is part of a national initiative of the Federal Office of Minority Health’s Closing the Health Gap Campaign, specifically targeted toward racial and ethnic minorities who suffer the greatest health gap. The free event is open to the public and provides an opportunity for community residents to focus on prevention and early detection. The event also encourages individuals to visit a health professional (doctor, nurse, dentist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or other health provider), attend a health event in the community or help a friend, neighbor or family member do the same. The event features exhibitors offering health screenings (such as vascular, cholesterol, diabetes, blood pressure, pregnancy, and depression; health experts from a variety of specialties; details about the services of various health organizations); free giveaways and refreshments. The Baltimore City Department of Social Services participates in the event helping individuals apply for medical assistance and food stamps. In addition, the Baltimore City Fire Department hands out certificates for free smoke detectors.

In 2005, nearly 2,000 people attended the event one of whom was a 101 year-old woman who arrived by bus on her own. She was interested in getting her ears checked as she noted her hearing was “getting a little dull.” She proudly announced her self-sufficiency with regard to her health care, laundry, and shopping. While at the event, she took advantage of the many health screenings and a check of her blood pressure revealed the need for medical attention. As a result, she was taken to the emergency room where she was treated and released.