By james art The 24th annual Share the Health Community Fair will be held Saturday, offering attendees a chance to get free screenings, tests and other health-related services.
The event runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Wake Forest Baptist’s Downtown Health Plaza Health Atrium, 1200 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Winston-Salem.
The event is open to all adults and children, regardless of insurance coverage, income level or immigration status. Those interested can log in on the day of the event and register for it. Spanish interpreters will be available.
There will be childcare and activities for children.
In addition to Baptist, other participating groups are Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the Northwest Regional Health Education Center.
Participants may receive a bone density screening; flu vaccinations; glaucoma and vision testing; glucose and cholesterol testing; mental health and memory screenings; screening for sexually transmitted infections; skin screenings and strength and balance tests.
Physicians and specialists will be in attendance, along with medical students, student assistants, technicians and other healthcare professionals
Most test and screening results will be immediately available to participants, as well as educational materials to help people understand what the results mean.
Participants will be given the opportunity to discuss any unusual findings or other health concerns with on-site Baptist physicians.
For those who need follow-up care and referrals, either the Downtown Health Plaza or other free local community organizations and clinics that provide the necessary services on a regular basis will be provided.
Representatives will be available to provide consultation regarding health insurance and legal resources, living wills and advance health care directives. Participants will receive, while supplies last, essential items including toothbrushes, soap and fresh produce.
“The goal of the health fair is to address the needs of underserved populations and create healthy lifestyles for future generations,” said Elsa Catarina Acosta, a third-year medical student. “It’s a small way to say thank you, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”