The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare announce that this Mother's Day-Sunday, May 14th, acts as the official kick-off for National Women's Health Week, May 14-20, 2023.
RaeAnn Tucker, Health Department Director of Health Promotion, states, "The goal of Women's Health Week is to empower women to make their health a priority. National Women's Health Week also serves as a time to help women understand what it means to be well."
Tucker adds, "As we celebrate National Women's Health Week, we will also focus on what it means to be a well woman. The fact is it's really a state of mind. It's being healthy as you can be. And, most importantly, it's about takings steps to improve your physical and mental health. Important steps include:"
* Continue to take steps to protect yourself against Covid-19, by staying up-to-date on Covid vaccinations.
* Getting at least 2 1/2 hours of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both each week.
* Eating a nutritious diet. Eat mainly fruits and vegetables; grains (at least half should be whole grains); fat-free or lowfat milk and dairy products; fish, skinless poultry and lean red meats; and polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.
* Visiting a health care professional for regular checkups and preventative screenings.
* Paying attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
* Avoiding unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, texting while driving, and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet.
During Women's Health Week, the Department hopes to raise awareness of the women's health services available at their First Choice Healthcare locations. The First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Colona offer area women such services as annual exams, pap smears, pregnancy testing, contraceptive counseling and supplies, clinical breast exams, fasting blood profiles, immunizations, and our new mental health services. Payment for Department services include private pay, medicaid, and most insurances.
Tucker adds, "Every woman should have access to affordable health care services. We encourage local women to take advantage of the savings offered through our First Choice Healthcare Clinics."
To find out more about the First Choice Healthcare Clinic’s health services for women call at (309) 852-5272 (Kewanee) or 792-4011 (Colona) or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or Follow Us On Twitter and Instagram.
