Goodland Regional Medical Center - Sherman County Health Fair

What is it?

The Sherman County Health Fair is an annual event coordinated by Goodland Regional Medical Center and held at Northwest Technical College. With the support of the Sherman County Health Agency, the Sunflower District of the K-State Research and Extension Services, and the Goodland Activities Center, this event grows each year to serve residents from Sherman County and the surrounding areas.

We kick off the event two weeks prior by providing blood profile screenings at a reduced rate. In addition to the basic blood chemistry profile, prostate and thyroid screenings are also available. The blood profiles are picked up at the health fair or can be mailed directly to the individual with proper paperwork. Physicians are available to go over any questions regarding blood profiles at no charge to health fair attendees.

The health fair focuses on various topics such as nutritional education and activities for children. We have provided childcare and special activities for school-age children. "Gator" Rivers, former Harlem Globetrotter, donated his time providing a basketball exhibition and talking about the benefit of exercise. Almost 40 exhibitors provide information ranging from health care careers, volunteering opportunities, diabetic shoe fitting, dental services, optometry services, counseling services, prevention services, air ambulance, emergency medical services (showcased our new ambulance); children's nutrition and activities, blood pressure screenings, carotid artery screenings, chiropractic information, and respiratory therapy.

Who is it for?

People of all ages in the Sherman County and surrounding areas of Northwest Kansas.

Why do they do it?

Our objective is to provide patient education, information and screenings to prevent illness and promote wellness. We invite exhibitors in areas that may have information beneficial to a person's health or wellness. The more we can educate and provide health care screenings, the healthier our community will be. We have had testimonials from various attendees throughout the years that the Sherman County Health Fair "saved my life" because they caught diseases and cancers early enough to be treated. If we save only one life, it is worth the many volunteer hours of planning and dedication to the Sherman County Health Fair. We hope we continue to grow in numbers each year. The health fair began in the 1980s with only a few booths. It has continued to grow each year through the generosity of local health care agencies, providers and volunteers.

Impact

More than 500 people attend the Sherman County Health Fair; the Medical Center provides more than 500 blood profiles, 150 hearing screenings, and nearly 50 carotid artery screenings (referred four to their physician). They also provide rehab service referrals and recruit new volunteers.

Contact: Tina Goodwin
Director of Marketing
Telephone: 785-890-6036
E-mail: tinag@gmedctr.org