Idaho State University-Meridian sponsors free Community Health Screening for uninsured adults Nov. 7

The Idaho State University-Meridian Health Science Center will sponsor a free Community Health Screening for uninsured adults Nov. 7

The second in a series of six screenings is Thursday, Nov. 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 950 W. State St., Boise. Free services will include:

● Basic physical exams, blood pressure checks and medication reviews

● Dental evaluations

● Free flu shots (while supplies last)

● Depression and alcohol screenings and questionnaires

● On-site testing for blood sugar levels, cholesterol, HIV and Hepatitis C

● Hearing and eye screenings

● Nutrition assessment and recommendations

● Health education

The free Community Health Screening Program began in March 2010, thanks to a partnership between the Idaho State University-Meridian Health Science Center, Ada County, Central District Health, and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

Approximately 650 adults have been screened to date, with many referred to low-cost clinics and doctors for further treatment. Screening services are provided by ISU-Meridian health professions students and clinical faculty.

“Often when citizens in our community are uninsured and can’t afford preventive health care, they seek medical care in emergency rooms as a last resort,” said Ada County Commission Chairman Dave Case. “This can end up costing taxpayers a lot of money, so our goal with this program is to provide a resource for people to turn to as a preventive measure, in an effort to ultimately help reduce costs to the county and to our taxpayers for funding Indigent Services programs.”

“Prevention is a crucial piece of health care, and our mission with these screening events is to identify individuals at risk of preventable diseases,” said Dr. Glenda Carr, an ISU-Meridian assistant clinical pharmacy professor and co-director of the Health Screening Program.

The full screening process takes about an hour. No appointment is necessary. Valley Ride bus stops are nearby. For more information, call 373-1700 or email healthyU@isu.edu.

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Media Contacts: Jessica Donald, Communications Specialist, Ada County, 287- 6998

Chris Gabettas, Public Information Specialist, ISU-Meridian, 334-3131