The Public Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Better Hope Assembly of God Church, on Saturday hosted its first ever health fair at Better Hope.
A pharmacist dispensing medication to patients at the Better Hope medical outreachA pharmacist dispensing medication to patients at the Better Hope medical outreach
The health fair targeted residents of Better Hope and neighbouring communities.
While delivering brief remarks, Inter-Ministerial Sector Coordinator within the Public Health Ministry, Seewchan (only name), told the gathering that there is dire need for cooperation among faith bodies and ministries in such activities. A doctor attached to the David Rose Mental Health Unit, Oletia Halls, said hosting health fairs is a way of delivering health services to the outlying areas.
“So far there has been a great turnout, (and) we are expecting more by the end of the day; so basically, we have had persons come in to do different tests, including eyes screening and blood pressure testing. We are trying our best to take the health (care initiatives to every) area, whether it is by outreaches or educational programmes. Health is an area we have to pay close attention to,” Dr Halls emphasised.
Dr Halls said the fair has seen great response from villagers, and has gone well over the target.
“In the blood donors section, out target was to receive 15 units of blood, and so far we already have 20 units of blood; so that tells us that persons are really interested and are getting involved,” she declared.
Pastor Dale Persaud of the Better Hope Assembly of God Church noted that, through the initiative, persons will be able to access health care at ease.
The fair offered the residents blood pressure testing, random blood sugar testing, HIV and blood grouping screening, blood drive, dental services, eye vision testing, and mental health screening.
The fair is expected to be taken to different communities across the country in the coming months.
