Mar del Plata launches "Health in Your Neighborhood" for accessible medical care.

The Health Secretariat of the municipality of Mar del Plata has launched a new edition of the "Health in Your Neighborhood" program, aimed at bringing medical care and prevention services closer to residents of underserved areas. This initiative, which will take place from Monday, January 27 to Friday, January 31, will feature three service points in different locations: the Bosque Peralta Ramos Promotion Association and Plaza España, where multiple health services will be offered. At the Bosque Peralta Ramos Promotion Association, located at the intersection of Don Arturo and Minuanes, the first service point will cater to the community from 9 AM to 2 PM. During this week, residents will have access to a variety of services, including dental, pediatric, and ophthalmological check-ups, as well as vaccinations and testing for HIV and syphilis. These services are especially important in the current context, where disease prevention and control are more crucial than ever. In addition to medical check-ups, awareness talks about dengue, a disease that has gained relevance in the region, will be offered. Equally important is the focus on animal health, as spaying/neutering and rabies vaccinations for pets will be conducted. Interested pet owners must arrive with their animals before 8 AM to secure a spot for the spaying/neutering service, which is limited to one animal per person, a measure aimed at facilitating care. The second service point, which will also operate at Plaza España, will offer similar services, including testing for HIV and syphilis, as well as vaccinations and talks on essential topics such as responsible pet ownership and first aid. The promotion of mental health will be another central focus, with the inclusion of the Municipal Addiction Care Service (SEMDA), a response to the growing need for support in this area. During this week, dental check-ups will be a priority, with services scheduled for Monday and Tuesday at Plaza España, and Wednesday at Bosque Peralta Ramos. Activities will include pediatric dentistry workshops aimed at children, emphasizing the importance of oral health from an early age. This preventive approach seeks to raise awareness about oral hygiene and detect problems in a timely manner. Additionally, workshops on the prevention and management of non-communicable chronic diseases, as well as talks on healthy eating, have been scheduled. These activities are part of a comprehensive approach that aims not only to address health issues but also to educate and empower the community in managing their own health. The availability of a mobile dental clinic is also a highlighted aspect of the program. This clinic will provide care to children, adults, and pregnant women without the need for prior appointments, facilitating access to dental care for a population that often faces barriers to such services. The Health Secretariat has emphasized that prevention is key. Through initiatives like "Health in Your Neighborhood," the goal is not only to provide medical care but also to promote healthy habits and raise awareness about the importance of preventive care. Through education and accessibility, it is hoped that residents will be able to take better care of their health and that of their families. The program presents an invaluable opportunity for the people of Mar del Plata to access essential services without the need to travel to distant health centers. Community response will be a key indicator of the effectiveness of this initiative. With a focus on comprehensive and accessible health, "Health in Your Neighborhood" positions itself as a pillar in the promotion of public health in Mar del Plata, demonstrating that healthcare can and should be part of the everyday life of all citizens.