(Observer)Residents in Urlings received free health screenings, along with referrals for follow-up care, thanks to a new community outreach initiative organised by UPP Candidate, Kelvin ‘Shugy’ Simon and members of the St Mary’s South Branch.
Last Saturday, a team of healthcare professionals volunteered their time to check blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and diabetes risk. They also surveyed residents about non-medical needs that affect their health, such as access to healthy food and exercise.
Health screenings provide critical information that can save lives and prevent serious conditions from developing and Simon hopes that this initiative will become an annual community event.
The screenings were conducted at the Urlings Primary School and provided residents without a primary care physician, or those who are unable to afford medical services, with a well-being status check that not only focused on their physical health, but also on their mental health and social needs.
Health screenings will be conducted at Bolans Primary School on Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 8am to 3pm.
“The quality of health care in our community has fallen woefully short, and so we are bringing well-needed health services to the people. Community health screening is a valuable resource in the early detection of many illnesses. Many diseases can be managed if treatment and lifestyle changes start early. We want to promote the benefits that come with early detection for certain types of ailments. We also want to strengthen partnerships with community stakeholders for mental health treatment and referrals for other types of illnesses,” Simon said.
The poor state of health care services in St Mary’s South motivated Simon to launch this community initiative. He pointed out that although a new clinic was commissioned in Bolans in March, it is still inoperable six months later. He also indicated that the clinic in Johnson’s Point is in a state of disrepair and the pharmacy is still closed, forcing residents to go to Browne’s Avenue or Gray’s Farm to fill their prescriptions.
“Health is a human right and we want to ensure a better quality of life for all. The wealth of our community depends on the health of our people. We deserve better health services in St Mary’s South, and I am committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our people and, by extension, our economy. This is the type of representation and leadership that residents in St Mary’s South deserve,” Simon stated.
As part of his commitment to community wellness, Simon hopes to host a health seminar to educate the public about healthy lifestyle choices that lead to better health, wellness and prevention.
The seminar is being planned as part of the Independence celebrations.
