Ready to draw blood

The annual Saratoga, Encampment and Hanna blood draws for community wellness screenings are scheduled for mid-April, according to Sue Jones, chairman for the Valley Service Organization (VSO), which is sponsoring the Platte Valley draws along with Wyoming Health Fairs/Wellness Health Fairs.

The blood draws are scheduled for Tuesday, April 17, from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. at the Hanna Elementary School; Wednesday and Thursday, April 18 and 19, from 6 to 10 a.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center; and Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21, from 6 to10 a.m. at the Grand Encampment Opera House.

WHF recommends 12 hours of fasting prior to having blood drawn and to drink plenty of water and take medications as usual. Diabetics are exceptions to this recommendation, Jones said.

Some 20 screenings are offered through these blood draws, she said, ranging in price from $25 to $80 each. Blood screenings cover such areas a those suggested annually, vitamin and hormone screenings. thyroid screenings, and others.

Three tests recommended yearly are offered: the basic blood chemistry panel with a full 33-level screening (cost $35); the hemogram (CBC) with differential ($25), and PSA screening for men ($35). Forms will be available to submit to insurance companies for reimbursal.

Blood pressure and body fat analysis screenings will be available at no charge.