Ministry of Health supports WASCO health fair
Monday, October 22, 2018
by Miguel Mauricette, Ministry of Health
THE ANNUAL EVENT MADE FREE HEALTH SERVICES AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness along with other health and safety agencies took their services to WASCO’s premises on Oct. 17, as part of WASCO’s second annual health fair.

Some of the services included dental, HIV, diabetic, vision, and gynecological services.

Family Life Educator, Janelle Alexander-Dupre, said when persons are reluctant to visit the doctor, one must find innovative ways to get the doctor to the people, if the ministry is to accomplish its goals.

“We don’t get the opportunity to go see our doctors or nurses every day, but we at the ministry are able to come to the workplaces and get in touch with the individuals, so that they can have all their screening done, know their numbers, and know what the next steps would be if there is anything of concern.”

Occupational Health and Safety Officer, Malvia Hippolyte, said it was pleasing to see the level participation.

“The employees are taking the initative and going to the different booths without prompting. They seem to be very receptive. We also have participation from the public as they enter the customer service department.”

The Water and Sewerage Company implemented creative ways of motivating staff to partake in the health fair.

“We gave them a health and safety passport,” explained Ms. Hippolyte. “With each passport there is a section for each agent present. After visiting the agent, they received a sticker which represents that they were present; and at the end of the day held a raffle and the winner received a grand price.”

Ms. Hippolyte added that a healthy workforce is important to the organization as it seeks to achieve its mission.