Little Rock - The Hispanic community is considered one of the most underserved groups in Arkansas--that's why several health organizations gathered last week to be a part of Binational Health Week.

The Mexican consulate office in Little Rock brought together various health providers and promoters to share their professional knowledge with the Latino community.

Groups like the St. Vincent Health System offered tests for high blood pressure and blood sugar--two areas in which Hispanics are often considered high-risk.

They also offered information about their Spanish hotline.

(Brenda Smith, St. Vincent Guest Services) “I'll get them in touch with the doctor's office, interpret for them over the phone, and set them up an appointment. And if they need information about any healthcare need or some kind of procedure, I'll be glad to send them that information--even send them a map from their home to the doctor's office to make sure they can make that appointment.”

Organizers say this is an important opportunity for Latinos to get access to health promotion and health education activities which may not be as available to them at other times.

(Andres Chao, Mexican Consul) “For me, it's an honor to have the consulate in sync with all these organizations to bring that information to bring that assistance to the community--because it's part of the role of the consulate.”

Binational Health Week is also celebrated in several other Latin American countries, as well as Canada.

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