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ADULT FOCUS ON HEALTH (AFOH)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can participate in AFOH?
A: The screenings at AFOH are designed for adults; therefore,
participants must be at least 18 years of age. Blood cannot be drawn
on anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
Q: What screenings are offered at AFOH?
A: Every site offers the Basic Screenings as follows:
In
addition to the free screening, the sites also provide these
following medical screening:
Each
site also offers medical professionals with whom you can
discuss health-related questions at Summary/Referral station.
Q: What is included in the Blood Chemistry
screening?
A: This screening provides baseline information on your
cholesterol, blood glucose, liver, kidneys and more. These
screenings can help you and your doctor monitor your health and
prevent health issues from becoming emergencies. In order to receive
the most accurate results for this screening, you should fast (do
not eat) for 12 hours prior to attending a health fair. Drink water
and continue to take your regular medications. If you are diabetic,
do not fast.
Q: What is included in the Hemogram?
A: This screening gives you a general picture of your overall
health by checking your white blood cells, red blood cells,
hematocrit, hemoglobin levels, and blood-clotting abilities. Your
body’s ability to fight infection, anemia and certain cancers can be
discovered with further follow-up from your health care provider.
Q: What is the TSH (Thyroid) Screening?
A: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is produced by the
pituitary gland and stimulates the release of hormones from thyroid
gland. Abnormalities may indicate hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Therefore, any abnormal result should be discussed with your health
care provider.
Q: What is the PSA screening and who should
get it?
A: (Men Only Blood Draw) Recommended for males 40 and older with
risk factors, or all males 50 and older. PSA is a blood screening
that measures a protein that is only produced by the male prostate
gland. Elevations of PSA may occur in men with non-cancerous
prostate diseases or prostate cancer. A normal PSA level does not
entirely exclude the possibility of prostate cancer. A digital
rectal exam (DRE) is strongly encouraged in conjunction with PSA
screening. Any abnormal results should be discussed with your health
care provider for further evaluation.
Q: What is the Hemoglobin A1C screening and
why should I get it?
A: The hemoglobin A1C (HgbA1C) test shows your average blood
glucose over the last 60 to 90 days. The American Diabetes
Association (ADA) has issued revised guidelines for A1C screening.
The ADA states that this screening could potentially reduce the
number of patients with undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Q: Do I really need the colon cancer
screening kit?
A: As we age, our risk of colon cancer increases. At age 50
and older, it is recommended that a screening for blood in your
stool be obtained. This can indicate colon cancer. It may also
indicate other things such as hemorrhoids, fissures or other
inflammatory changes. It is recommended at age 45 and older for
African-Americans. Testing at an earlier age is recommended if you
have family history of colon cancer.
Q: Do I need to fast for any of these
screenings?
A:
-
It
is recommended that you fast (consume no food) for 12 hours
before the Blood Chemistry Screening and the A1C.
-
You are encouraged to drink water beginning the evening before
the blood draw. Being hydrated will make the blood draw easier
for both you and the medical volunteer drawing your blood.
-
Continue to take any prescription medications.
-
Diabetics should not fast before the AFOH because their blood
sugar level may get dangerously low.
-
If
you are unable to fast for 12 hours, your glucose, cholesterol,
and triglycerides may be slightly elevated. None of the other
results will be affected.
Q: What methods of payment are accepted?
A: Cash and personal checks are accepted.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: No, participants are served on a first come, first served
basis.
Q: When will I receive my blood screening
results?
A: Your results will be mailed to you at the address you
provided on your registration envelope. You will receive your
results within 4 to 6 weeks.
Q: How much time should I allow to
participate in AFOH?
A: Most participants spend about two hours learning about their
health. Depending on your interests and the site you choose, the
health fair can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.
Q: How long does it take to go through the
health fair?
A: If you come early, it could take about 30 minutes to an hour
to get through the blood drawing station. After that, you can drop
off your paperwork at the Summary/Referral station and leave without
going through the other stations and exhibits.
Q: If I am just coming in for the blood
tests, what am I required to do?
A: Everyone that comes in will be asked to fill out registration
paperwork. Then we ask you to have your blood pressure checked. You
will proceed to the blood chemistry registration table before having
your blood drawn. After you have your lab tests drawn you are to
drop off your paperwork at Summary/Referral before you leave the
health fair.
Q: What is the Summary/Referral Station?
A: This is the last stop before you leave. Nurses will be there
to review your health check results and answer questions or refer
you to a source for further assistance. You are not required to stay
and talk with those at this station, but this is where you will drop
off your paperwork before you leave.
Q: Does Medicare or my insurance cover the
costs of screening?
A: Medicare does not cover the cost of screenings. Since
insurance companies have different requirements for coverage, you
should consult your insurance provider regarding reimbursement of
screening costs.
Q: I’m concerned about the security of my
results. Do you provide my results to anyone other than my self?
A: No. AFOH does not provide results to anyone other than the
participant.
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