No health insurance? Free comprehensive health screening at ISU-Meridian Oct. 19

MERIDIAN--Basic physical and dental exams and testing for blood sugar levels and cholesterol are included in free services offered at a community health screening Thursday, Oct. 19, 4-7 p.m., at the Idaho State University-Meridian Health Science Center, 1311 East Central Drive.

The comprehensive screening is the second of six scheduled at various Treasure Valley locations through April for adults with no insurance or limited access to preventive health care. The Idaho Foodbank will provide free boxes of food for participants. 

People who plan on buying health insurance under the Affordable Care Act beginning Nov. 1 may find the screening useful in determining what type of policy they need, said Dr. Glenda Carr, screening organizer and Idaho State University-Meridian clinical assistant pharmacy professor. 

“Our students and faculty are eager to help connect people to care and other resources within the community," she added.  

Faculty and student clinicians administer the services which include: 

• Free flu shots while supplies last, blood pressure checks and medication reviews
• Oral/dental health evaluation and education
• On-site testing for blood sugar levels, cholesterol, HIV and hepatitis C 
• Hearing and eye screenings
• Nutrition assessments and recommendations
• Health education
• Traumatic brain injury screenings

The Community Health Screening Program began in March 2010 and has screened more than 1,000 adults. Partners are ISU-Meridian, Ada County, Central District Health, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, the Idaho Foodbank and Hispanic Cultural Center of Idaho. 

The full screening process takes about 90 minutes, and patients in immediate need are given appointments at low-cost or free Treasure Valley clinics for additional care. For more information, call 373-1700 or email healthyU@isu.edu.

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