NORWICH – Norwich Rotary is once again presenting the Annual Blood Screening and Health Fair on Saturday, Oct. 13,  from 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. This will be the 27th annual event. Thanks to the generosity of the YMCA, the screening is again in their facility’s community room, as it has been the past ten years.

Registration for the screening is by telephone only.  Call AMBA Wellness Programs toll free 1-800-234-8888 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Because of provider guidelines, the fee, which is payable at the event, must be paid with two separate checks. The first fee, in the amount of $38, is payable to AMBA and covers a panel of approximately 40 tests (screening and blood work). The second fee, in the amount of $10, is payable to Norwich Rotary, the event sponsor. There are additional screenings available for an additional fee, so the total cost may vary depending upon the particular screenings each person chooses. Included will be a Continental breakfast after the blood is drawn.

It’s important to remember that fasting for 12 to 14 hours before the test is required. Check with your health care provider regarding taking any prescribed morning medications. Also, remember this screening is not meant to replace your annual physical.

Howard Fogel and Dr. Paul Doroghazi are Rotary’s chairpersons for this year’s event. They stated, “The annual blood screening has been a very popular program over the past 27 years. It is always well attended by the public and it is anticipated that this year will be no exception. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity as part of a good annual personal health care program. We also encourage everyone, whether participating in the blood screening or not, to use this event as a reminder to call your health care provider and schedule your annual physical exam. There will be a wealth of wellness information and services available.”

Centrally located at the YMCA, parking is convenient and there is a comfortable area for enjoying refreshments and the health fair.

Each person’s screening results will be forwarded to their designated health care provider. Providers will review the test results and contact patients directly when test results indicate the need for a follow up visit

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about diabetes, have your blood pressure taken, meet local providers, have your medications reviewed, and learn about the many services available in our area. You can get all that information in one place, see many of your friends, and enjoy a great Continental breakfast at the Rotary Blood Screening.