Washington, D.C., Sept. 18, 2006—The American Public Health Association (APHA) today announced its support of the annual Take a Loved One For a Checkup Day to be held Sept. 19. APHA joins with its partners in encouraging Americans to visit a health professional, make an appointment for a visit, attend a health event in the community or help a friend, neighbor or family member do the same.
“The goal of this day is to encourage people to take charge of their own health and help their loved ones do the same,” said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, FACP, executive director of the American Public Health Association. “While one day is not enough, we hope that our efforts will emphasize the importance of regular health care visits and screenings that aid in the early prevention and treatment of serious health problems.”
While all Americans are encouraged to visit their doctors during the observance, efforts are primarily focused on underserved communities. “Racial and ethnic minorities experience the highest disease burden yet they have the least access to care,” said Benjamin. “By working to increase access to quality, affordable care in these communities, we can eliminate these disparities and improve the health status of millions of Americans.”
Take a Loved One For a Checkup Day is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Additional information is available at http://omhrc.gov/healthgap/.