NORWICH – Chenango Memorial Hospital is once again teaming up with the Norwich Rotary, presenting the 24th Annual Blood Screening and Health Fair on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Thanks to the generosity of the YMCA, the screening is again in their facility’s community room, as it has been the past seven years. Registration for the screening is by telephone only. Call toll free 1-800-234-8888 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Because of provider guidelines, the fee, which is payable at the event, must be paid with two separate checks (or you may pay cash). The fee covers the screening and lab work, a continental breakfast once the blood is drawn, and the materials from the health fair. It’s important to remember that fasting for 12 to 14 hours before the test is required. Check with your health care provider regarding taking any prescribed morning medications. Also, remember, this screening is not meant to replace your annual physical.
John Cook, Rotary’s chairman for this year’s event, commented, “The annual blood screening has been a very popular program over the past 23 years. Centrally located at the YMCA, parking is convenient and there is a comfortable area for enjoying refreshments and the health fair.”
There is a large array of screenings available, so the fee for services will vary, depending upon the particular screenings each person chooses. Each person’s screening results will be forwarded to their health care provider. Providers will review the test results and contact patients whose tests indicate the need for a follow up visit.
Garry Root, Chenango Memorial’s Director of Community Relations, commented on the annual screening, “ I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity as part of a good annual personal health care program. I also encourage everyone, whether participating in the blood screening or not, to use this event as a reminder to call your health care provider and schedule your annual physical exam.”
There will be a wealth of wellness information and services available at the event. As part of the wellness event, participants are encouraged to bring their medications for review by Chenango Memorial’s Pharmacy Director, Michael Migliore, RPh. In addition, Chenango Memorial’s radiology department will offer free osteoporosis screenings. “Many local organizations take advantage of this event to reach the hundreds of local health care consumers who attend the blood screening. It’s an opportunity to learn about diabetes, have your blood pressure taken, meet local providers, have your medications reviewed, and learn about the many services available in our area.” Root said, “You can get all that information in one place, see many of your friends, and enjoy a great Continental breakfast at the CMH/Rotary Blood Screening.”
Cook concluded, “This annual event is a wonderful opportunity for Norwich Rotary Club to work with Chenango Memorial Hospital and other local partners to encourage the health and wellness of Chenango County families. We’re looking forward to a great turnout again this year.”