Making Strides on Breast Cancer Awareness in Central Valley

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The Weitzman Institute works in partnership with California’s Central Valley Health Network to support and assist California-based health centers in their journey toward making significant improvements on key performance measures by facilitating collaborative, solution-focused QI efforts. We utilize Uniform Data System data to identify “bright spots,” and commend the innovative work that health centers have done to increase breast cancer screening rates.

While many clinics saw a stark decline in preventative services from 2020-2021, Harmony Health Medical Clinic and Family Resource Center maintained their already high level of breast cancer screening rates at 70%.

According to Quality Manager Luis Palacios, by building a patient-centered culture, where staff and providers recognize “the patient is more of a story, and less of a number,” Harmony Health has been able to provide consistent patient outreach and education. Staff share the “hows” and “whys” of breast cancer screening with patients, and the health center has also incorporated creative software solutions to ensure they reach all eligible individuals.

Congratulations, Harmony Health, on your impressive and important work!