RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the April 12 Communities in 12 Months in Toulon, Public Health Week, the blood panel special, sharps disposal, and insurance navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with First Choice Healthcare, observed March 24th as World TB Day, urging residents to get tested as tuberculosis continues to pose a global threat. The theme, “Yes, We Can End TB!” spotlights renewed action after COVID-19’s setbacks. Community members can access TB testing at all First Choice locations. Additionally, the “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach event arrives in Toulon on April 29th at West Main Coffee & Books, offering safe medication disposal, free blood pressure checks, and insurance guidance. Residents interested in upcoming events or seeking more details are encouraged to contact the health department at 309-852-0197. Additional information, including event schedules and health tips, can be found online at www.henrystarkhealth.com or through their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stay connected to take advantage of these community health opportunities.
March 24th has been declared World TB Day by the Henry and Stark County Health Departments alongside First Choice Healthcare. The event highlights the continuing threat of tuberculosis, one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. Each day, TB claims more than 4,100 lives globally, with nearly 28,000 new cases reported daily. This year’s theme, “Yes, We Can End TB!” urges swift action and investment to reverse setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic. Community members are encouraged to get tested. TB testing is available at all First Choice Healthcare Clinic locations.
For appointments, call Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are hosting their “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach event on April 29th at West Main Coffee & Books in Toulon. Between 7:30 and 9:30 AM, residents can safely drop off expired or unused medications, get a free blood pressure check, and pick up giveaways. Health information will be available, and a Get Covered Illinois Insurance Navigator will assist with coverage questions. For details on accepted items for disposal, visit the Health Department’s website. This initiative highlights ongoing efforts to connect the community with essential health resources and services.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments have launched their “12 Communities, 12 Months” initiative, aiming to bring health promotions and events to residents throughout the year. Each month will spotlight a different community with activities and resources focused on improving wellness and access to information. Residents interested in upcoming events or seeking more details are encouraged to contact the health department at 309-852-0197. Additional information, including event schedules and health tips, can be found online at www.henrystarkhealth.com or through their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stay connected to take advantage of these community health opportunities.
March 24th marks Diabetes Alert Day—a reminder from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare of the nationwide impact of diabetes. Currently, 26 million Americans live with diabetes, while another 79 million are at risk for Type 2. High blood sugar often goes unnoticed, making early detection critical. Type 2 diabetes may have subtle symptoms such as unusual thirst, frequent urination, persistent fatigue, or blurry vision, which are often mistaken for less serious issues. Those over 45, or anyone overweight with risk factors like family history or high blood pressure, should arrange a screening. First Choice Healthcare offers affordable lab tests and diabetes management at its Kewanee and Toulon clinics. Call 309-852-5272 or 309-852-3115 for more information.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, are highlighting their community health initiatives during National Public Health Week, from April 6–12, and throughout April. As part of their campaign for healthier living, the clinics are offering a special deal: a General Health and Thyroid Panel Blood Test, including a full cholesterol panel, for just $50. Fasting is recommended for the best results. The special rate is available for all area residents by appointment on a cash-only basis.
The First Choice Healthcare Clinics are marking Public Health Week by offering special rates on lab work throughout April. Residents can take advantage of the discounted lab services by scheduling an appointment at either the Kewanee or Toulon locations. For more details or to book a visit, call Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115. Additional information and updates are also available through the Henry and Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare Facebook page, as well as on Twitter and Instagram.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program, are hosting walk-in events to assist residents with health insurance enrollment. Health Insurance Navigators will be available at Briggs Bistro in Cambridge on March 23rd from 11 AM to 1 PM and at Caffeine & Carbs in Geneseo on March 25th from 8:30 to 10:30 AM. Navigators can help compare plans, apply for coverage, and determine eligibility for financial help or Medicaid. Special Enrollment is possible after major life changes. For details, call 309-852-5272.
Briggs Bistro, 119 W. Exchange St., Cambridge, IL
Monday, March 23rd
11:00 am-1:00 pm
Caffeine & Carbs, 1225 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo, IL
Wednesday, March 25th
8:30 am-10:30 am
Residents of Henry and Stark Counties are being urged to safely dispose of used needles, syringes, and lancets using new Residential Sharps Collection Kiosks. Funded by the Illinois EPA, kiosks are now available in six convenient locations, including healthcare clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon, plus the Geneseo Police Department, Henry County Courthouse in Cambridge, and Alpha Pharmacy. Improper disposal of medical sharps can be hazardous to children, adults, and sanitation workers. The Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare encourage everyone to use these kiosks to help protect the community. For more details, call 309-852-0197 or visit henrystarkhealth.com.
The Residential Sharps Collection Kiosks are located at the following locations during regular business hours:
- First Choice Healthcare Kewanee Clinic, 110 N. Burr Blvd., Kewanee
- First Choice Healthcare Colona Clinic, 103 1st St., Colona
- First Choice Healthcare Toulon Clinic, 120 E. Court St., Toulon
- Geneseo Police Department, 119 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo
- Henry County Courthouse, 307 W. Center St., Cambridge
- Alpha Pharmacy, 211 S. 1st St., Alpha