Beckley ARH Cardiology offering free screenings in honor of American Heart Month

Michelle Schultze, The Register-Herald, Beckley, W.Va.
·2 min read

Feb. 7—BECKLEY, W.Va. — In recognition of American Heart Month, Beckley ARH Cardiology Associates will offer a Healthy Heart Fair Feb. 9 and Feb. 23 at Beckley ARH Medical Mall.

The two-day event will offer free services including EKGs, lipid panels, blood pressure and glucose checks and stroke assessments.

Results for all screenings will be available immediately, and members of the ARH cardiology team will be on-site if needed.

Natalie Sargent, clinic head nurse for Beckley ARH Hospital, said the fair is designed to not only raise awareness about the risk of heart disease, but also to reduce barriers that might discourage people from receiving medical care.

"People might not get checked because they don't have insurance and they're worried about how to pay," she said. "So, we're offering everything free of charge, all in one place to make it easier. This way they can get checked and know how they're doing and if they need further care."

In addition to the screenings, participants will also receive tips for healthy eating and living and smoking cessation. Additionally, anyone interested can receive instruction on performing hands-on CPR.

"It's important to know in case of an emergency either out in the community or in your own home," Sargent said of CPR.

There are no age, health or financial requirements for the walk-in-only event, as Sargent says the only goal is to promote heart health in one of the nation's unhealthiest regions.

"We're (West Virginia) first highest in the nation in the prevalence of heart attack and coronary artery disease and the seventh in the prevalence of stroke," she says. "So, it's important for us to offer help and information."

The Beckley ARH Cardiology Associates Healthy Heart Fair will be Feb. 9 and Feb. 23 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fasting is recommended for best results.

Beckley ARH Medical Mall is located at 1256 N. Eisenhower Drive in Cranberry Creek Shopping Center close to Sam's Club.

For more information, call 304-254-2656.