Thanks for making health fair a success

The 19th Annual Kids 1st Health Fair, sponsored by the Lake County Health Department, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science and United Way of Lake County was a huge success. The Aug. 3 event served 955 children, providing 525 physicals, 556 immunizations, 394 dental exams, 201 lead and hemoglobin tests, 262 TB tests, 198 foot care assessments and 933 backpack fittings. Additionally, over 900 backpacks with school supplies and 6,000 books were provided to children.

Of the children served, 677 (71 percent) received more than one core service (physical exams, dental exams, and/or immunizations) and 376 children (39 percent) received nutrition counseling. In an effort to increase the number of children who report to the TB clinic to have their test results confirmed, gift card incentives were offered. The special funding used for these cards more than doubled the test-reading rates from 38 to 83 percent. In line with increased national efforts to identify and treat childhood diabetes in the United States, 525 children were screened for diabetes.

The Kids 1st Health Fair would not be possible without our dedicated business and financial contributors. We also thank 683 community volunteers who gave of their expertise and compassion. On behalf of the families and children served this year, we offer our heartfelt thanks to all.

Irene Pierce, Executive Director, LCHD;

K. Michael Welch, CEO, RFUMS;

Kristi Long, CEO, UWLC