History
On September 30, 1993, members of the National Medical Association, Region II and the Medico-Chirurgical Society of Washington, DC met with representatives from various African-American professional and consumer organizations to discuss the formation of an alliance to improve health care services to the District of Columbia residents. The organizations present at this historic meeting included:
- Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. (Alpha Chapter)
- D.C. Cancer Consortium
- D.C. Department of Human Services/Commission of Public Health
- D.C. General Hospital
- HEAL D.C.
- Howard University Hospital
- Medico-Chirurgical Society/National Medical Association
- Operation Taking Charge
Barriers preventing easy access to health care services was a primary concern of this group and said barriers were attributed in part to apathy, a lack health of education, and a lack of understanding or interest in the health status of many District residents.
It was determined that as leaders in their various organizations, those present must initiate action to ensure the elimination of the barriers. They needed to provide an organization of health care educational information which would promote better health awareness. The coordination of available resources would be established and implemented in and for the District of Columbia. As a result of these meetings, Health Pact, Inc. was established. It was incorporated in the District of Columbia on November 3, 1993.
Mission
To build a healthier community through communication, coordination and collaboration with health care service providers and consumers.
Objectives
- Assist in the development of a healthier population within the District of Columbia, and now across the country, by fostering all aspects of medical and health education.
- Foster and manage programs and activities, including, but not limited to, educating all people about health, health care, nutrition, mental health, physical development and aging.
- Collect, promote and distribute information on all aspects of medicine, health care, health education and promote public awareness.
- Empower members of minority communities to assume greater responsibility for their health and lifestyles.
Functional Activities
- Develop health fairs as a screening mechanism to provide early diction, treatment and to prevent health care problems. Health fairs for the elderly, employee groups, men goups, children in day care centers, physical exams for students participating in athletic events, and Boy Scouts;
- Participate in programs to evaluate accessibility for the disabled and the capacity to handle on-site medical emergencies at churches;
- Monitor and make recommendations on public health policies; and
- Develop a series of educational programs to be delivered to the community through organizations, such as AARP, fraternities, sororities, and community based organizations.
