July 2, 2014
Health workers in Cherbourg will kick off local NAIDOC Week celebrations with a health expo next Monday (July 7).
The one-day event will feature tests for blood glucose levels, weight, haemoglobin and blood pressure.
Cherbourg Hospital and Health Service manager Tarita Fisher said the expo was targeted at people who ordinarily would not present at the hospital for regular health checks or screenings.
“Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are more prominent in indigenous communities,” Ms Fisher said.
“Interventions often do not commence until the client presents at the hospital in an emergency situation, or at a later stage of disease management.”
Chronic Disease Team Leader and Expo Co-organiser Genette Simpson said the event would feature fun and creative activities aimed at encouraging community members to undergo health screenings.
“It is also a chance to highlight the health services that are available in the area and refer people to service providers if needed,” Ms Simpson said.
Incentives will be available to encourage people to take part in the testings.
The Cherbourg Health Expo will be held from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Welfare Hall.
A free barbecue lunch will be available.
For more information contact Genette Simpson on (07) 4169-8900.
