Sidney Health Center and the Richland County Health Department are co-sponsoring and coordinating the ninth annual Community Health Fair in March. The two entities are once again joining forces with local organizations to promote various health-related topics and feature screenings to the general public.

This year’s Community Health Fair is slated for March 12 and 13 at the RichlandCountyFairEventCenter located at the Fairgrounds in Sidney. The event will kick-off Tuesday evening from 5:00 – 7:00 PM and continue on Wednesday from 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Coordinators of the event are anticipating a little something for everyone again this year. The health fair will feature various screenings, demonstrations, and more than 40 community booths on various health topics.

Screenings are quick assessments or tests that help identify individuals who may be at risk for disease or health complications. A few of the screenings available are the non-fasting blood draws, blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, hearing and retinal photographs.

The SidneyHealthCenter lab will offer non-fasting blood draw tests for thyroid function and glycohemoglobin tests at reduced rates. The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) tests are available for $20. The glycohemoglobin (HA₁C) test checks an individual’s risk for diabetes by providing a blood sugar average for the last three months. The test is available for $25.

Demonstrations throughout the event will highlight gardening, disaster preparedness, exercise, therapeutic art and quick healthy smoothies.

Tuesday, March 12

·         5:30 PM – “Zumba – Get Up & Move!” by Melanie Wadley

·         6:00 PM – “Compact Gardening” by Tim Fine, MSU Extension Service

Wednesday, March 13

·         9:00 AM – “Shake It Up!” Smoothie Demo by Ludmila Keller, MSU Extension Service

·         10:00 AM – “SilverSneakers” by Jenny Skov from HealthWorks

·         11:00 AM – “Disaster Preparedness” by American Red Cross

·         12 Noon – “Zentangle – A Relaxing Art Method” by Peggy Kopp

·         1:00 PM – “Shake It Up!” Smoothie Demo by Ludmila Keller, MSU Extension Service

Representation from various organizations will be readily available both days addressing a full range of health-related topics from nutrition advice to mental health issues as well as chiropractic services to preventative programs to name a few.  In addition, the SidneyHealthCenter pharmacy will be partnering with the local law enforcement to provide a “Medication Take Back” service. Health fair attendees are encouraged to bring their expired and unused prescription medications to ensure proper disposal.

Concessions will be available both days. The Nazarene Church Youth Group will provide supper from 5:00 to 6:30 PM on Tuesday evening and SidneyHealthCenter food service will offer breakfast and lunch options on Wednesday.