Health fair set for April 17

Editor’s Note: The annual 9 Health Fair will take place on both ends of the county on Saturday, April 17. The health fair in Rangely will be held at the former Early Education Center from 7 a.m. to noon.
The Rio Blanco Fire Protection District, Pioneers Hospital and the Lions Club are joining forces to bring 9 Health Fair to Meeker on April 17. The health fair will be held at the Fairfield Center, with blood draws for the general public beginning at 7 a.m. and concluding at 11 a.m. The 31-component blood chemistry analysis will cost $30 and the complete blood count an additional $15. Men may obtain a prostate specific antigen test for $25, and colon cancer screening tests are available for $20. Last year, approximately 600 people participated in 9 Health Fair, with the majority opting to take advantage of the low-cost blood screening for those 18 years of age or older. A 12-hour fast prior to the blood draw is recommended; however, diabetics should not fast. Participants on prescribed medications may continue to take their meds as directed. Kris Borchard, lab coordinator, emphasizes the importance of drinking water prior to the blood draw.
Other tests made available by local medical personnel this year include blood-pressure checks, breast exams, skin screening, body in balance, height and weight check, hearing and vision testing, finger stick glucose check and pulmonary testing. Additionally this year, ultrasound screening will be available free of charge and will include ultrasound imaging scans of the carotid arteries, checking for plaque, as well as heart rhythm screens, aneurysm screens, and screens of other abdominal organs.
Medical personnel will be available at checkout to answer questions participants may have.
• Anyone interested in volunteering at this year’s health fair, can contact Kris Borchard at 878-3443, or Christy Atwood at 878-4014.