The nurses’ week celebrations which started on the 10th May with a church service continued with the annual health fair – on the grounds of the Princess Alexandra Hospital – under the direction Twyla Bradshaw Richardson, President of the Nurses Association.
The event was sponsored by Medical Air Services Association (MASA) which subsidized costs so that free services could be offered to the patients. According to Twyla, “We offer free services because everybody knows that healthcare can be expensive. Sometimes we take it for granted and don’t get our screening done.”
Dr Ellis Webster, an invited professional, commented that “Health fairs are a good screening mechanism. Many people can find out during a fair that they have a medical problem. If they catch it early enough then the treatment is easier, less costly and the morbidity and mortality is less. “
The Association collaborated with a number of health professionals to offer screening services for ENT, dental problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, HIV/AIDS, foot care and other regular testing. However, this year, it broadened its services to include massages, physical therapy, and herbal and natural medicines such as those offered by ‘Simply Natural’ and ‘Inspire’. In addition to the local health personnel, at the fair, was a team from St Marten (associates of ACAN) which advocated safe sex.
Another concept promoted at the fair was ‘Eat what you Grow’. Thus, local crops, herbs and spices were displayed (raw and cooked with less salt and alternative herbs).
With regard to the ‘holistic approach’ to health, in terms of including other services such as massages, herbal and natural medicine and local produce, Dr Phyllis Fleming Banks, of ‘Simply Natural’, thought the health fair was unique and innovative.
