Take a Health Professional to the People Day

Abstract

McGriff's ordeal led Lipscomb to have his blood pressure checked. The screening revealed heart disease and eventually led to bypass surgery. For the past year, the Center for Minority Health has conducted training for many of the barbershop and salon operators and staff, such as Lipscomb and his barbers, so they can act as lay health mentors or guides. They also answer health-related questions and distribute literature, advise people where to turn for answers, and encourage customers to take preventive steps such as scheduling regular appointments and screenings with doctors. "Sometimes barbers act as doctors, psychologists, counselors, role models, students and teachers," said Kevin Andrews, owner of Bat's Barbershop in East Liberty. "We can learn a lot from our customers and hopefully they can learn something from us."