UNITY – Various services found within the Unity Health Centre joined together for the first Saskatchewan Health Authority Community Wellness Fair on April 18. Professionals from 10 different services were on hand to answer questions to the wondering minds of the public.
Courtney Lewis, a physical therapist who helped organize the fair, said there was lots of positive feedback from the community.
“Visitors commented they were able to learn something new from each professional. Many were surprised by the number of things that could be done there as well, like having their immunization record checked,” said Lewis.
Services that were on-hand at the fair included Physio and Occupational therapists, Community Mental Health, Community Dietitian, Diabetes Nurse Educator, Home Care, Volunteer Services, EMS, Public Health and Autism Services. Some professionals were not available but had information on hand for the public.
Approximately 35 people attended the inaugural wellness fair. Visitors were welcomed to come and go throughout the day, getting one on one advice and information on the services that are available within the community. Each department had information for any age of visitor to take home. Chelsea Gieni, a registered dietitian, and Public Health had fun activities for any kids that visited with their parents or guardians.
While a similar event was held in March at Parkview Place, this event was SHA services only. Some newer faces to the Unity Health Centre included Reigan Gallais with Autism Services and Home Care’s registered nurse Lauren Reschny.
Lewis did say the possibility of having more wellness fairs in the future is good.
“We are still figuring out what future fairs look like and how we can best serve the community,” she added.
She also added the goal going forward would be to have the fair a few times a year, allowing community members to use the time to ask questions, find out about upcoming education and volunteer opportunities and be proactive in their health care journey.
