UPP Candidate, Kelvin “Shugy” Simon continues to call for the opening of the Bolans clinic which remains closed, more than six months after the official opening last March.
To bring relief to residents in the community, Simon continued the free health screenings drive at Bolans Primary School last Saturday.
Residents without a primary care physician, or those unable to afford medical services, welcomed this initiative that not only focused on their physical health but also their mental health and social needs.
This community outreach initiative was made possible by a team of volunteer healthcare professionals.
Residents of all ages had an opportunity to check their blood pressure, body mass index (BMI) and diabetes risk and, where appropriate, they received referrals for follow-up care.
They were also surveyed about non-medical needs such as diet and exercise that can affect their health.
“The program was very well organized and they made me feel comfortable from the minute I got there. I did some blood work and the results showed that my cholesterol level was high and I got a referral to see a cardiologist.
They also discussed my diet and what medications I take.
I am grateful for this free check up. We need more services like this in the community that focus on health,” said one of the participants in the program.
Poor access to health care services in St Mary’s South was Simon’s main motivation for launching this community initiative.
He blasts the Gaston Browne administration for failing to open the new clinic in Bolans.
In addition, the clinic in Johnson’s Point is in a state of disrepair and the pharmacy is closed, forcing residents to go to Browne’s Ave or Gray’s Farm to fill their prescriptions.
“Investing in the health of our community is an investment in our future. Preventive health screenings provide critical information that can help save lives and prevent serious conditions from developing.
It allows our residents to be more proactive in managing their health. We deserve better health services in St. Mary’s South, and I am committed to doing my part to improve the health and wellbeing of our people and, by extension, our economy,” Simon stated.
Simon describes the health screening program as a rousing success and he intends to make it an annual initiative.
He also sees the need for more public health education. He plans to host a community health seminar to increase community awareness about how healthy lifestyle choices can lead to better health, wellness and prevention.
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