Check Up! or Check Out!
Creating Better Health Outcomes for African-American Males

Overview

African-American males have the shortest life expectancy of all males in Michigan. In 2006, the Minority Health Section of the Michigan Department of Community Health and Molina Healthcare collaborated on Check Up or Check Out, a program designed to address the underutilization of
preventative health care services among males 18-64 in the city of Detroit.

The Challenge

• To increase awareness of the importance of preventative health among African-American men.
• To increase knowledge among African-American men of their health risks.
• To increase preventative exam rates for African-American males in Detroit.

Our Approach

Molina identified members without any preventative exam history and providers that had at least 20 qualifying members. Member interventions include brochures, personalized letters and palm cards with health messages, reminder phone calls and gift cards for keeping appointments. Provider interventions include an introductory dinner and workshop, Minority Health and Molina Healthcare staff visits and a “Wall Plaque” for the office with most improvement in preventive visits.

Our Results

Preventive exam rates for black male participants increased from 7% to 19.4%. Cholesterol, glucose, colorectal and prostate test rates increased significantly. The program expanded to 13 locations in Kent and Muskegon counties and an additional 44 locations in Detroit, increasing the program membership from 1814 to 4443.