La Clinica de la Raza - Fruitvale Health Project, Inc.

1515 Fruitvale Avenue
Oakland, CA 94601

The Spanish-Speaking Women’s Cancer Initiative aims to: reduce the risk of late diagnosis of cancer; improve access to culturally and linguistically appropriate medical care and coordinated services; and strengthen and institutionalize inter-agency collaboration to sustain continuum of care and influence broader systems of care. Underserved and uninsured Hispanic or Latino women living in Contra Cost County are targeted by the project, which provides a continuum of care ranging from early detection to end-of-life support. The project is a carried out through an existing coalition of La Clinica de La Raza-Fruitvale Health Project, Inc.; American Cancer Society; Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa, Inc.; Contra Cost County Health Services Department Patient Navigator Program; The Wellness Community; and Women’s Cancer Resource Center.

The project includes a health promoter program, health education workshops, cancer screening, health system navigation, medical interpretation, in-hospital and in-home practical and emotional support, support groups, and end-of-life services. Activities include street outreach, educational activities and workshops, health fairs and other events, and media outreach to increase awareness of women’s cancers. Screening is provided to 1,000 women annually, with referrals for free mammographies. Navigation services facilitate access to insurance, diagnostic procedures, and treatment, and include interpretation and followup. Coordinated care management for those diagnosed with cancer includes needs assessments, care and referral plans, linkage to services, support and advocacy, medical appointment support, interpretations, home visits, and resource referrals. Emotional and practical support are provided for women undergoing treatment, and include monthly support groups, transportation assistance, and end-of-life services. Educational activities include sessions for women diagnosed with cancer to improve their knowledge of treatment, self care and decision making, and the distribution of educational materials in Spanish. Efforts to strengthen collaborations and influence systems of care include outreach to providers and community organizations, assistance to communities in replicating the core strategies of the program, improved public awareness, and promotion of policies that reduce health disparities.