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. While the event is being held in Excelsior Springs, its location was driven by a demonstrated need in the region, with Ray County identified through hotspot data as having elevated rates of late-stage breast cancer incidence and mortality. The community resource fair will be held from 1 to 5 p.m., followed by the symposium from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Additional information about the symposium can be found on page 2.

Hinnah explained the patient’s experience reflects the reality many people face while trying to access breast healthcare, even when they …