Easing early detection in the fight against breast cancer

The American Cancer Society estimates that each woman in the U.S. has almost a 13% chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. Here, Ryan Rupp , Regional Director of Operations at Vera Whole Health (now a part of apree health ), discusses the role advanced primary care can play in early detection, and the impact of social drivers of health on screening rates.???

What are you thinking about this Breast Cancer Awareness Month??

Every October, #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth is a time to reflect, provide education and to share the importance of screening and prevention. Cancer has touched all of us in one way or another and it is staggering to think about the nearly 300,000 cases of breast cancer each year in the United States. On a personal level, I have seen my father and sister-in-law be diagnosed and treated for breast cancer and I cannot emphasize enough the importance of early detection and screenings. Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the color pink remind us that we can make a difference for ourselves and for others. This is a great time to consider volunteering, supporting research efforts, encouraging loved ones to get screened and supporting someone through their health care journey.??

How can advanced primary care influence early detection??

Advanced primary care (APC) focuses on a patient’s whole health by surrounding patients with a comprehensive team of primary care providers, health coaches, care managers and behavioral health clinicians. This team helps coordinate care and assists the patient in navigating through a fairly complex health care system. Another important component of APC is the emphasis on receiving care when you are well. Patients are encouraged to have an annual whole health exam, which is a three part preventive check-up consisting of a biometric screen, wellness visit with a provider and a connection with a health coach. During this visit and other visits throughout the year, a care team will review recommended screenings and assist with scheduling, follow-up and any potential barriers.???

How has Vera’s work with OSU/James in Columbus been received???

In April 2023, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-James Cancer Hospital & Solove Research Institute , one of the most respected health care institutions in the country, agreed to provide on-site mobile mammography services to four 摩根大通 campuses in Columbus. This created visibility and awareness around the importance of completing a mammogram and also offered a convenient way for employees to complete their 20-minute mammogram. The service has been well received and many employees have taken advantage of this unique offering. I’m happy to share that this service will continue into the future and dates for 2025 are currently being finalized.??

What positive developments do you see in the industry??

There are two areas that come to mind:

1. Increased collaboration between organizations in different sectors as demonstrated by JPMorgan Chase & Co. and The Ohio State University.
2. Increased focus on the social determinants (drivers) of health.?We cannot ignore how someone’s environment and non-medical factors influence health, whether it be related to screenings and prevention, sick care and/or chronic condition management. Data shows that lower cancer screening rates occur in certain populations, and focusing on these areas and providing patients with helpful resources and support is a significant opportunity.???