Hedrick Medical Center hosts the 2012 Community Health Fair March 24

The 2012 Community Health Fair will provide a variety of health screenings: cholesterol, blood glucose, thyroid panel, prostate health, bone density, anemia, blood pressure, and pulse oximetry. Information also will be provided to attendees on diabetes and rehabilitation education. The Grand River Heart Restart group will provide hands-on CPR training and automated external defibrillator orientation.

Community members who attend the health fair can learn about potential health issues early, allowing them the time and information needed to get more comprehensive care from their personal physicians. In January, Kenny Mitchell and his wife Sharon learned the importance of early screenings and encourage their friends and neighbors to attend this health fair as an inexpensive way to keep track of their health. During a January health fair, provided by Saint Luke’s Health System, Kenny Mitchell received an abnormal result from one of his screenings. The couple then pursued another, more in-depth test to learn more.

"We immediately took the results of both tests to our family physician," Sharon Mitchell said. "He, in turn, sent us to the specialist we needed to see. Further testing was completed, and my husband ended up having triple bypass heart surgery. Had we not attended that health fair, it is hard to say what would have happened."

"Many people don’t regularly see their doctors for annual check-ups to get the full scope of tests and screenings they need," said Suzanne Reeter, occupational health care coordinator at Hedrick Medical Center. "This health fair is a simple, fast, and inexpensive way to learn more about your how your body is doing, and to ensure you’re doing the right things to keep you healthy for a long time."

The costs of the adult screening range from $10 to $45, and fasting after midnight the night before is required. For information, call 660-646-4611.