The UAB Heersink School of Medicine student-run free clinic, Equal Access Birmingham (EAB), has partnered with the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operator of MAX Transit, to help reduce one of the most common barriers to healthcare—transportation.
With support from the BJCTA, Equal Access Birmingham has introduced the Equal Access Birmingham Transportation Initiative, made possible by BJCTA’s donation of 750 MAX Transit bus passes. The program offers patients dependable options for traveling to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential destinations. By improving travel access, the initiative strengthens EAB’s mission to make healthcare more consistent and attainable for residents across Birmingham.
“Transportation is one of the biggest barriers our patients face in accessing care,” said Julia Mamana, head communication officer of Equal Access Birmingham. “As a free clinic, we rely heavily on community support and are so thankful for this partnership, which will not only reduce missed appointments but also help connect patients with grocery stores, food banks, and other vital resources that support their overall health.”
The partnership reflects both organizations’ dedication to serving the Birmingham community through accessible, patient-centered care.
“Transportation is essential to ensuring equitable access to healthcare, and we are honored to play a role in helping EAB’s patients reach lifesaving services,” said Charlotte Shaw, executive director and CEO of the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority. “At BJCTA, our mission extends beyond transportation—we are committed to building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.”
Through the Equal Access Birmingham Transportation Initiative, Heersink medical students continue to demonstrate their dedication to service and community partnership—putting their education into action to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients across Birmingham.