Wellness van brings health care to high health-risk southern Illinois counties

Southern Seven Health Department continues to provide mobile health services for residents living in the lower seven counties in Illinois. Through a partnership with Illinois Department of Public Health, Southern Seven has acquired the use of the IDPH Wellness on Wheels van to provide health screenings and other services, including free NARCAN training, to those living in high health-risk areas.

Over the next several months, the WOW van will visit each of the counties in an effort to take many health services to people who may find it difficult to seek care. Coming WOW van clinics in April are:

April 6 in Cobden from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (to be held in the Downtown Park)

April 13 at the Egyptian School in Tamms from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

April 13 at SMILES Senior Center in Mounds from 1:30 to 4 p.m.

April 20 in Dongola from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (to be held in the downtown parking lot in front of the Village Hall)

April 20 in Anna at SCC Anna Annex from 1:30 to 4 p.m.

April 27 at Hardin County School in Elizabethtown from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

April 27 at Potters Church in Cave-In-Rock from 1:30 to 4 p.m.

In addition to NARCAN Training, S7HD will offer free blood pressure and colorectal cancer tests. For a fee, blood lead, hemoglobin and cholesterol screenings, STD tests (including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis), HIV, pregnancy, and TB skin tests will be available. All services will be offered while supplies last and are covered by most insurance carriers.

No appointment will be necessary for services. Walk-ins are welcome.

For more information, and future outreach events for the WOW van program through Southern Seven Health Department, contact Shawnna Rhine at 618-634-2297 ext. 9161 or visit S7HD on Facebook and at www.southern7.org.