For one woman, scheduling a mammogram was only the beginning of a much longer journey marked by transportation problems, financial concerns and a healthcare system that became increasingly difficult to navigate.

Gateway to Hope Programs and Clinical Engagement Senior Director Heather Hinnah shared the patient’s story ahead of the Northwest Missouri Breast Health Symposium and Community Resource Fair, scheduled for Aug. 20 at The Elms Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs. The event will feature a community resource fair from 1 to 5 p.m., followed by a breast health symposium from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Additional information about the symposium can be found on page 1.

Hinnah explained the patient’s experience reflects the reality many people face while trying to access breast healthcare, even when they know screening is important. She said it illustrates why patient navigation and reducing barriers to care remain central to the organization’s mission.

At 42, the patient knew she was at high risk for…