National Institute of Health Initiative Collects Medical Data from the Local Hispanic Community to Better Support Precision Medicine

As Hispanic Heritage Month continues to be celebrated in southern Chester County through mid-October, LCH (La Comunidad Hispana) is finding a new way to celebrate and showcase their rich Latino roots and culture: by joining the efforts of the National Institute of Health’s All of Us Research Program. The free program follows the medical information of underrepresented communities over the course of ten years in order to better understand patterns of why people get sick or stay healthy.

“Medical research needs more information on the background and history of underrepresented groups.  In order to provide the best care, we want to support the national efforts of understanding the full history, the full story, of the patients we serve”, said Barbara Mancill, Director of Quality and Population Health and Interim Co-CEO.  “We are excited to share this opportunity with our members.”

LCH was founded in 1973 to serve the immigrant community that came to the area for job opportunities in the local economy.  While LCH has since expanded their services and reach into the whole community as a Federally Qualified Health Center for all, the roots of serving and celebrating the Latino community remain a strong part of the LCH culture.  Currently 86% of the patients cared for at LCH are Latino.  “We truly celebrate diversity at LCH,” said Amanda Blevins, Community Engagement Manager at LCH.  “The All of Us Research Program is a great reflection on that pride.  Our patients who are participating will be contributing to important research that can help to improve the health of everyone.”

LCH is supporting the program by spreading the word about the opportunity through community outreach and education.  Community members do not need to be an LCH patient to participate.  LCH’s goal is to educate and support enrollment of 500 participants to the program.  The national goal is to have one million participants.  If any community members want to learn more about the program or need help registering, contact Nefta Erroa at (610) 444-7550 X231 or nerroa@lchps.org.  You can visit the program’s website directly:  https://www.joinallofus.org//go