ELK CITY – More than a dozen free screenings, tests and other health-related services will be available to the public at the Elk City Community Health Fair this Wednesday, April 19.
The Beckham County Health Department is the event sponsor and will partner with several local community organizations. The health fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the 5 Plex parking lot, 601 N Western Drive in Elk City. The event is open to everyone regardless of insurance coverage or income level.
“For some attendees, this will be the only time they see someone for a health-wellness visit. We feel grateful for the opportunity to hold this impactful event that affects the community we live and work,” said Leann Gilchrist, Oklahoma State Department of Health Assistant District 5 Nurse Manager.
A variety of vaccinations and screenings at the health fair include: · WIC, SoonerStart · Sexually transmitted infection screening · Glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure testing · Veterans and family counseling information · Toothbrushes and dental information · Biometrics – aerobic fitness screening · Mental health and depression screenings · Vision screenings · Hearing and developmental screenings · Substance abuse resources and information · Mobile blood drive · Fluoride varnishing for six months to 18 years of age · Community resources for food, housing, prescription assistance and Medicaid The health department will have its mobile wellness unit on site for health screenings. Other community participants who will participate include Shortgrass Community Health Center, Our Blood Institute (OBI), Oklahoma Dental Foundation, Great Plains Regional Medical Center, South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA), Lions Club, Red Rock Behavioral Health
Services, Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City, Elk City Police Department and the Elk City Fire Department.
Most test and screening results will be immediately provided to the participants as well as educational materials to help individuals understand what results mean. Event organizers encourage participants to come and eat lunch as food trucks will be on site. Children can also meet local police and firefighters as they will have a smokehouse and patrol cars at the event.
