RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to share insights about upcoming health initiatives as March’s National Nutrition Month concludes. The department offers diverse health education programs targeting schools, employers, and community organizations. These initiatives focus on preventing critical health issues like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Despite the significant allocation of healthcare funds to treatment, Tucker emphasizes the need to boost preventive measures. Topics include heart health, cancer prevention, and nutrition, with anti-vaping efforts highlighted. Additionally, FIT Colon Cancer Screening kits and well water testing kits are offered to promote early detection and safe living conditions.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are offering a variety of health education programs suitable for schools, employers, and local organizations. With public health focusing more on prevention, these programs aim to tackle issues such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, highlights the importance of educating communities, noting that while a significant portion of healthcare funds target treatment, only a small fraction is dedicated to prevention. Topics range from heart health and cancer prevention to anti-vaping and nutrition
To schedule a presentation or for more information on the Department Health Education services, call 309-852-0197, visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com, or find them on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments, on Instagram, and on Twitter.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments urge residents to partake in their monthly CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) certification classes. Heart disease remains the nation’s top killer, emphasizing the need for more certified individuals ready to respond to emergencies. Through the American Heart Association’s guidance, the training covers infant, child, and adult CPR, AED usage, and emergency identification. Sessions occur on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 4 PM to 6 PM at the Health Department offices in Kewanee. Each class costs $45. There are minimum and maximum participants for the classes, so interested parties should register and pay in advance by calling 309-852-0197, extension 231. Don’t miss this chance to learn life-saving skills.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are scheduling fluoride teeth varnishing sessions for local children. This dental treatment strengthens tooth enamel, helping to prevent and slow down tooth decay. It’s particularly crucial for children aged 3-6, as many do not visit a dentist regularly. These sessions are an easy, effective way to promote ongoing oral health. The First Choice Healthcare Clinics are offering fluoride varnishing appointments at their locations in Kewanee, 110 N. Burr Blvd., 309-852-5272; Colona, 103 1st St., 309-792-4011; and Toulon, 120 E. Court St., 309-852-3115. This initiative ensures a healthier future for young smiles.
In honor of National Public Health Week from April 7–13, 2025, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are teaming up with First Choice Healthcare Clinics to enhance community health. Throughout April, the clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon will offer a General Health/Thyroid Panel Blood Test priced at only $50. This test features a comprehensive lipid “Cholesterol” panel, with fasting recommended for optimal results. Residents are encouraged to make appointments, as services are on a first-come, first-served basis, and payments must be made in cash. For appointments or further details, contact your local clinic directly.
To schedule an appointment or for more information on the First Choice Healthcare Clinics’ Public Health Week April Lab Special, call Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115, or find them on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare, or follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
