September 12, 2007

The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is pleased to help recognize Tuesday, September 18, 2007 as Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day. This observance is part of a national campaign sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health which focuses on educating African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American/Pacific Islander, American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and others about the health gap between these groups and the general population of the United States.

The focus of the day is to encourage individuals to take charge of their health by visiting a health professional (doctor, nurse, dentist, nurse practitioner or other health provider), by making an appointment for a visit, by attending a health event in the community, or helping a friend, neighbor, or family member do the same. Many people wait until there is an emergency before they go for a checkup. Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day is an excellent way to screen individuals, and when necessary, refer them for follow-up care.

"Family members and friends can help each other by encouraging their loved ones to get regular checkups or other preventive health screenings," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. "If they do not already have a doctor or have health insurance, they should contact their local community health center or local health department to ask about free or low-cost care."

In an ongoing effort to close the health gap between racial and ethnic minorities and the general population, numerous health screenings and health fairs will take place throughout the Metropolitan Detroit area during September 17-21 as part of the Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day.

On Tuesday, September 18, 2007, the MDCH Health Disparities Reduction and Minority Health Section, in collaboration with the Wayne County Health Department and the Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion, will host a Health Awareness, Screening, and Wellness Fair in observance of Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day. The fair, including blood pressure and glucose screenings, health information and exhibitors, will be held at the Citadel of Praise Church at 20280 Lyndon St. (near Evergreen) in the Brightmoor District of Detroit, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Ramona Prater of the MIX 92.3 will be hosting a "live call in" on site where she will be speaking with the community and encouraging listeners to come down for a health screening and information.

For more information about this free health fair, please contact Patrick Jackson, MDCH Health Disparities Coordinator, at (313) 456-4417.