Get a pulse on your health at annual fair

Bonner General Hospital is committed to caring for the health needs of our community.  As part of that commitment, we are proud to join the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce and many other local sponsors in hosting the second straight Community Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.

This event promises to be both fun and informative, with something for the entire family!  Just a few of the services we’ll be offering free of charge include blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, osteoporosis risk assessment screening, hypertension education and diabetes education.  We’ll also have up-to-date information about the H1N1 flu and what you can do to take care of yourself and your family during the upcoming flu season. 

Another important service we’ll be providing again this year is assistance with living wills and healthcare powers of attorney.  We’ll have the forms available that you need to spell out your healthcare wishes if you’re unable to speak for yourself, and a counselor will be on hand to answer questions.  If you don’t already have these important medical directives in place, you’ll want to take advantage of this no-cost opportunity.

Have you ever wondered what happens in an operating room?  Or what X-rays look like up close?  Now’s your chance to find out!  We’re going to de-mystify the hospital experience with a behind-the-scenes look. Be sure to check out our mock operating room for a close-up view of a few of the instruments used in a surgical procedure.  And don’t miss our radiology department’s “X-ray Dude,” a life-size display of the bones inside the human body.

Whether your interest is in one of these areas or in home health, hospice, lab, family-centered maternity care, or job or volunteer opportunities, we’ll have information available about virtually every aspect of our services and how you can get involved with our mission.

Bonner General Hospital is committed to the good health of our community, and we’re looking forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 19th to learn more about the healthcare services available for you and your family right here at home!

n Lynda Metz is the director of community development at Bonner General Hospital.