The Detroit Wayne County Health Authority will sponsor a rally and walk on behalf of the uninsured and underinsured on Saturday, Aug. 9, in Detroit’s New Center. “Walk for the Uninsured” will feature presentations from elected officials, health care safety net providers, and representatives of the uninsured.
The event will begin with presentations at 10 a.m., followed by a 3 mile walk in the Midtown/Wayne State University area. A shorter, 1.5 mile walk course is also available. There is no fee for the event, but walkers are encouraged to raise money on behalf of the Health Authority’s Community Education Fund, which supports community and health education projects.
“We want to put a face on the issue of the uninsured, and the best way to do that is live and in person,” noted Chris Allen, Executive Director and CEO of the Health Authority. “Given that more people than ever are uninsured or under-insured, and the prominence that universal health care has assumed during this election year, we thought a rally/walk would be an excellent way of demonstrating our community’s support for the uninsured.”
There currently is an estimated 280,000 uninsured people in Wayne County, and an growing number of underinsured people, whose workplace health benefits are diminishing and co-pays increasing. The reduction in health insurance coverage for many workers has reduced access to medical care, pharmacy, medical equipment, and other health services, further compounding the issue.
In addition to the program and walk, the Health Authority will offer Medicaid enrollment assistance on site during the event. People who are uninsured are encouraged to speak with an outreach counselor who will determine if they are eligible for Medicaid or another insurance program.
For more information, download our flier for the event using the link below.
Walk for the Uninsured 2008 Flier (236.73 kB)