Kyoto Prefecture is teaming up with major convenience store chain Lawson to provide cancer screenings at some of their 300-plus outlets in the area. Starting in fiscal 2016, mobile medical centers will be set up either inside the convenience stores or in their parking lots for anyone interested in some impulse blood testing.

This isn’t the first time, either, as Lawson has already started similar programs in four other regions. For example, in 2014 in Amagasaki, Hyogo, medical checkup vehicles made periodic stops at Lawson stores offering examinations and promoting regular checkups. No additional fees were charged for the convenience, and no reservations were necessary. During 2014, 234 people participated at 16 Lawson locations.

Kyoto plans to begin with a limited number of stores in spring 2016 to gauge the effectiveness of the program and decide whether or not to expand it. Organizers are optimistic, however, with reps saying that “compared to other venues like community centers, this is more conspicuous to youth and people who don’t regularly get examined,” and “By taking advantage of convenience stores, we want screenings to feel close at hand for those who shop there.”

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