Bleeding for health

Wyoming Health Fairs/Wellness Health Fairs (WHF) will be holding their annual blood draws for wellness screenings next week in Saratoga, Encampment and Hanna.

Dates for the blood draws are Tuesday, April 9, from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Hanna Elementary School; Wednesday and Thursday, April 10 and 11, from 6 to 10 a.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga, and Friday and Saturday, April 12 and 13 from 6 to 10 a.m. at the Encampment Opera House.

Valley screenings are being organized this year by the Encampment chapter of Beta Sigma Phi. In Saratoga, local arrangements have been made by the Valley Service Organization (VSO).

Sue Jones, chairman for VSO, reminded residents that WHF recommends 12 hours of fasting prior to having blood drawn, unless diabetic, and to drink plenty of water and take medications as usual.

Some 19 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; the hemogram (CBC) with differential, and PSA screening for men.

Forms will be available to submit to insurance companies for reimbursement.

Refreshments will be available for participants after their blood is drawn.