Taking the mystery out of local health services

The Health and Human Services Department in collaboration with Public and Environmental Health is launching new efforts to inform the public about the many health services, information and family-friendly programs offered in the county.

Healthy Haunt
Realizing that on Halloween evening more than 300 trick-or-treaters travel the length of Colorado Boulevard in Idaho Springs, the Community Resource Center is opening its doors on the thoroughfare to provide gifts, health information, program sign-ups and fun activities for children and families.
Called “Tips and Treats,” this new event will feature staff in costume, a resource list of where to get health and human services, bandages for boo-boos, tooth brushes and healthful treats.
The event begins at 4 p.m. at 1531 Colorado Blvd. with doors closing at 8 p.m.

Free and discounted vaccine:  
prevention for seasonal sniffles
If you have not already taken advantage of the free and discounted seasonal flu shots (including pneumonia shots) that have been provided in the past weeks, there is still time.  This year’s flu vaccine includes the H1N1 and is given free to those in need.  
Two more clinics are available on Oct. 28th while supplies last:  from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Loaves and Fishes Annex in Idaho Springs and from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Georgetown Community School.  
If you have questions or have been unable to get to the clinic sites, call 303-567-3144 to make an appointment or to check on vaccine availability.

Health Navigator helps
match families with programs
Did you know that a health advocate is available to help mothers and families navigate the many programs and services available in our area?  Her name is Stephanie Brown.  Call her at 303-478-1795 or e-mail her at sbrown@co.clear-creek.co.us and find the programs you need.

First Friday to launch on Nov. 5
To maximize outreach and enrollment in children’s health programs, the health department will be hosting fun activities, games and give-aways at the Community Resource Center in Idaho Springs the first Friday of every month for 10 months.  
This and other outreach programs promote family-centered, community-based, culturally competent systems of care for families in need. Each month will feature a special surprise.
Don’t miss the launch of this program scheduled for 3 to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 5. This event will feature a bounce house, weather permitting in the parking lot next to the Resource Center, indoor games, coupons, face painting and drawings for sport and fitness equipment and passes.

Collaborators seek to increase
activity awareness
Enjoy our great outdoors and the many trails, bikeways, recreational opportunities both indoor and outdoor for exercise, sport and fun.
The Community Development Department is working collaboratively with the Clear Creek Recreation District and Clear Creek Public and Environmental Health to build awareness of the many opportunities to expand use of resources and encourage fitness activities.  

Are you saving money on your
prescription drugs? (for pets too!)
You could be. More than 100 Clear Creek County residents saved from $3 to $16 on each prescription medication by using their free Prescription Drug Discount Card provided by the National Association of Counties.
Clear Creek is a member of this program.These cards are available at the Community Resource Center in Idaho Springs, at the County Court House Campus in Georgetown and at local libraries and at the recreation center.

In the coming weeks, log on to www.ClearCreekHealth.org for important information and watch for flyers and newspaper inserts describing the programs and benefits of your local Health and Human Services Department.
Take the mystery out of seeking and finding the local health resources you need.
 
Linda Trenbeath is a health educator for Clear Creek Public and Environmental Health. She may be reached at ltrenbeath@co.clear-creek.co.us or by calling 303-679-2386.  Her monthly column featuring topics and information to improve health, promote wellness and to inform readers about local health resources and issues.