Improves outcomes and lowers burden on rural health systems
Health care screenings for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer conducted by Vecinos, a free clinic and Rural Health Center serving uninsured and low-income adults in far-western North Carolina, increased by 75%, 81% and 44% respectively over the last year. Additionally, telehealth utilization by Vecinos’ patients more than doubled compared to last year.
“Early detection is one of the most important factors in prevention and treatment and better health outcomes,’ said Emily Hamilton, BSN, RN, Quality Improvement Director at Vecinos, “Nearly half of our patient population is up to date on cervical, colorectal, and breast cancer screenings.”
With a dedicated focus on quality, Vecinos diverted nearly $4 million in emergency room visits in 2023, reducing the burden on acute care rural health systems. Hamilton attributes the positive change to the organization’s dedication to its mission, and the collaboration between Vecinos’ Clinic and Outreach teams.
“These metrics mean we are living our mission by meeting patients where they are, overcoming barriers to access, and keeping our patients safe and healthy,” said Hamilton. “Our focus on outreach, education, and access has made all the difference.”
In April 2025, Vecinos will open a new clinical location in Macon County. The Vecinos Healthcare Hub will co-locate primary care and behavioral healthcare with dental care and other services that address the social determinants of health.
About Vecinos
Vecinos is a 501(c)3 nonprofit free clinic and Rural Health Center who believes healthcare is a basic human right. Formed in 2004 to serve migrant farmworkers in Jackson, County N.C., Vecinos has expanded to serve all uninsured, low-income adults in Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties. Our mission has always been to provide culturally centered health and wellness services through free bilingual primary and mental health care and wraparound services that eliminate barriers to patient healthcare. We are excited to launch the WNC Community Health Hub in spring 2025 in Franklin, NC, to expand care to medical, social, and dental health services! Donations to Vecinos are tax-deductible and can be made HERE.
Pictured at the top of the article from left are Community Health Worker Maria Trevino and Vecinos Head Nurse Practitioner Kelly Ware.