By Andrea Stevens
AFRO Staff Writer
astevens@afro.com
Kaiser Permanente is marking the start of fall with a new community program designed to connect health and happiness. The organization will hold “Wellness Weekend” festivals Nov. 8-9 to encourage families to adopt healthier habits through free screenings, interactive activities and education focused on preventive care.
Timed with the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the beginning of American Diabetes Month, the events will also provide information, early detection resources and screenings aimed at advancing equitable health outcomes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that “catching prediabetes early can help people prevent or delay Type 2 Diabetes. Finding out Type 2 Diabetes—and taking action—can help people prevent or delay serious health complications. Getting tested is simple and quick.”
Events are scheduled for Kaiser Permanente medical centers in multiple locations. In Haymarket, Va., services will be offered at the Haymarket Crossroads Medical Center, located at 15050 Heathcote Blvd. In Bowie, Md., resources will be available at Bowie Fairwood Medical Center, located at 5400 Hillmeade Road. In Timonium, Md., people can speak with healthcare professionals and take advantage of their offerings at Lutherville-Timonium Medical Center, located at 2391 Greenspring Drive. The fairs will run on Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Nov. 9 from noon to 4 p.m.
Each site will be transformed into a family-friendly health hub featuring seasonal attractions, wellness demonstrations and opportunities to learn about the organization’s coordinated approach to care.
“This is a good time to encourage and influence people to get tested and get screenings done. We have facilities available to the public so they can see what they get from a Kaiser Permanente facility. All your screenings, labs and pharmacy are in one place,” said Charima Young, senior director of community relations at Kaiser Permanente.
The initiative coincides with open enrollment, inviting both current members and prospective participants to experience how Kaiser Permanente’s integrated model delivers convenient, compassionate care for every stage of life.
“We will give free screenings to Kaiser members and non-members,” said Young. “This event provides a space where people can have fun, bring their families, but also learn more about what’s going on with their bodies.”
This weekend festival will include autumn-themed experiences with local vendors, flu shots, and wellness booths; children’s activities promoting movement and healthy routines; opportunities to engage directly with physicians and health experts through on-site question-and-answer sessions; and tours of each facility highlighting Kaiser Permanente’s emphasis on accessibility and integrated services.
Through each Wellness Weekend, Kaiser Permanente continues its mission to strengthen community health one relationship at a time.