Organizers estimated that the two One-Stop Cancer Shops held earlier this fall served more than 100 people. The two events were held in October at Mount Calvary Community Church at 5112 Ames Ave. and Nov. 1 at the Nebraska Urban Indian Health Center at 2226 N. St.
“This event shows what a partnership between the community, UNMC College of Nursing, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center and Nebraska Medicine can do to reach people who would not otherwise have been served,” said the Rev. Karen Saunders, pastor of Christ Love Unity Church and a board member for One-Stop Cancer Shop. “By coming to the community, we build trust. We especially appreciate the nursing students who came to learn about caring for underserved populations.”
In addition to the UNMC College of Nursing, volunteers from the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center and Nebraska Medicine were on hand, as well as other community groups and organizations.
Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, dean of the UNMC College of Nursing, said the college was pleased to join with the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center to improve cancer pre-screenings in underrepresented communities in Omaha.
Post-event surveys showed that the two events “improved medical mistrust” among 83% of the community members who attended.
“This opportunity has boosted our students’ confidence and exposed them to opportunities that they would not otherwise have experienced,” she said. “I’m pleased that our relationship building with the community has proven to improve medical mistrust. This was our hope, and we will continue to work to have an impact that will allow others in our community to receive compassionate care.”
Cancer screenings included breast, lung, prostate, colon and skin cancer. Flu shots also were available.
Joann Sweasy, PhD, director of the National Cancer Institute-designated Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, said she was pleased by the success of the event.
“Partnerships like these can have a valuable impact,” Dr. Sweasy said. “Early detection is a great advantage when dealing with cancer, and our team at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center is always excited to get out into the community to help where we can.”
Love this! Wonderful service with our community members!
Congratulations Mark et al. on a job well done. Kudos to the nursing students who supported this event. The community showed out in force.
Wonderful program for our community. Congratulations to Dr. Quan Ly for developing such a valuable event and all supporters and volunteers who participated!