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Beaumont Public Health Department Organizes First Public Health Fair
The Beaumont Public Health Department, led by Director Kenneth Coleman, is on a mission to promote healthy lifestyles, prevent disease, and protect the health of the community. As part of their efforts, the department organized their first ever public health fair for the uninsured, underinsured, and those on Medicaid.
One-Stop-Shop for Health Services
The fair aimed to provide a one-stop-shop for health services, bringing together several local resources under one roof. Primary care resources such as the Jefferson County Health Department, TAN, and Legacy were available for the uninsured/underinsured community, while Community Health Choices and an Affordable Care Act representative were present for those with Medicaid. UTMB was also in attendance, providing women’s services.
Additional Services
In addition to these primary healthcare services, the health fair also provided free immunizations for adults and children, free COVID-19 vaccines for ages six months and up, diabetes assessments, and STD information. Other organizations that deal with specific illnesses and care such as Janiyah’s Love Sicle Cell Foundation and DentaQuest were also present.
Gift of Life Program
The Julie Rogers “Gift of Life” Program, which provides free cancer screenings and education on various types of cancer, was also present. Founded by Regina Rogers, the program is named after her mother, a breast cancer survivor who was concerned about underserved women who could not afford healthcare or insurance. Rogers is passionate about the benefits of early detection and the program has saved more than 300 lives through early detection. The foundation’s goals go hand in hand with those of the Public Health Department.
Long-term Goals
When asked about the long-term goals for these efforts, Coleman explained that the mission is to have a healthier community. By providing access to healthcare and health education, the department hopes to improve the health outcomes of the community.
Looking Forward
This was the Public Health Department’s first public health fair, but they are looking forward to organizing more events in the future. Coleman emphasized that it takes very little to make a difference in the community and urged others to get involved and help.
