Community Health Fairs

Community Health Fairs - Health Education and Promotion

Health fairs held in communities improve access to health screenings and health education for all.  A community health fair gives access to those without health insurance, an opportunity to meet and converse with local healthcare providers (HCPs).  Additionally, local residents get a chance to meet HCPs in the area and learn about local healthcare resources.  These resources may include reduced costs for the uninsured, local health support groups, and education on various health topics prevalent in the community. 

Introduction of health initiatives can be implemented at the health fair.  Local programs such as smoking cessation groups, walking clubs, yoga classes, or weight loss challenges can be presented to the community, and community members have the opportunity to enroll in these programs while at the health fair.  Local competition and being part of a larger program are effective ways to lose weight or stop smoking.

By introducing these healthy ideas at the community level and providing resources for future care, community health fairs can be a gateway to creating a culture of wellness.  This change can then be replicated one community at a time towards a future where prevention and health education becomes the norm versus our current system of sick care.  This process is overdue and much needed to help change our current health system.  The individual needs to be empowered with health education from reputable resources and given the right tools to help them make healthier choices and form healthier habits.  When individuals take on the responsibility for their own health, and given the resources to make healthy choices, only then will health care in America improve.  This will cause an upward ripple effect on the quality, and cost of health care; causing a true culture shift towards better health.

Reference

Nash, Reifsnyder, Fabius, & Pracilio. (2011). Population health: creating a culture of Wellness. Jones and Bartlett Learning, LLC. Sudbury, MA.

• Naren Balkarran