Sage Memorial Hospital is expanding its reach by introducing two mobile units that will offer outpatient services to eight locations within the Navajo Nation. The goal is to provide comprehensive care through these mobile units, which include screenings and education for diabetes mellitus, rapid HIV and syphilis tests, treatments for sexually transmitted infections, adult immunizations, harm reduction services, walk-in services, and more.
In addition to these services, Sage Memorial Hospital has also introduced the Produce Prescription Pilot Program. Funded by a grant from the Indian Health Service, this program aims to increase access to fruits, vegetables, and traditional Native American foods in order to reduce food insecurity and improve health outcomes among Navajo Nation residents. The program provides families who are food insecure or diabetic with the option to have food delivered by Sage Memorial or to purchase food themselves using a loyalty card at the store.
By incorporating traditional Native American foods into this program, the hospital hopes to not only provide nourishment but also improve health outcomes for individuals within the Navajo Nation. Transportation and access to food have been identified as significant barriers to healthcare and this program seeks to address these issues head on.