U.S. Sen. Mark Warner joins officials at announcement event for tour of mobile health unit; speaks on importance of new partnership to Virginians in Central Appalachia.
The United Health Foundation and The Health Wagon today announced a new partnership to expand access to vital health care services for thousands of people in communities throughout southwest Virginia.
A three-year, $1 million grant from the United Health Foundation will enable The Health Wagon to provide new, no-cost diagnostic and specialty services, such as mammography, ultrasound, X-ray and dental services, to underserved communities across a six-county service area.
“For nearly four decades, The Health Wagon has provided critical health care services for Virginians,” said Sen. Mark Warner. “This new partnership with the United Health Foundation will increase the reach and scope of the work The Health Wagon is doing to make sure people in southwest Virginia are getting the care they need.”
“We know from experience that early detection and treatment of disease is vital for improving the health and well-being of the people we serve. We welcome the United Health Foundation’s partnership in expanding life-saving specialty and diagnostic care for thousands of medically underserved individuals and families living in southwest Virginia,” said Dr. Teresa Tyson, executive director of The Health Wagon.
The Health Wagon is the only free clinic operating in a six-county area of southwest Virginia, providing care to people in the mountains of Appalachia through two mobile health units, outreach events and two stationary clinics.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with The Health Wagon to ensure Virginians in Central Appalachia have access to compassionate, high-quality health care,” said Tracy Malone, president of the United Health Foundation. “Ultimately, our shared goal is to help people live healthier lives and improve the health care experience for patients.”
About The Health Wagon
Established in 1980, The Health Wagon provides compassionate, quality health care to the medically underserved people in the mountains of Appalachia. It is the only free clinic serving a six county area in southwest Virginia, and delivers care through two mobile units, two stationary clinics, and several health events. In 2018, The Health Wagon served over 4,700 people and provided over $5.6 million in health care services.
About the United Health Foundation
Through collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, the United Health Foundation works to improve our health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. The United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. To date, the United Health Foundation has committed $430 million to programs and communities around the world. We invite you to learn more at www.unitedhealthgroup.com/SocialResponsibility.
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