WMHS Community Health and Wellness provides access to information and services that promote healthier lifestyles and enhance quality of life. The majority of the clients served by Community Health & Wellness are adults, but overweight youth are a growing concern. The staff includes a medical director, community care manager, dietitian, nurse educator and more. Many of the health improvement services are offered for a nominal fee. Some services are covered by insurance. A sliding fee scale also is available. WMHS Community Health and Wellness collaborates with numerous community partners to improve the health status and quality of life in our community.
Here is a Description of Programs and Services offered by WMHS Community Health and Wellness:
High-risk populations include: • Disadvantaged clients with limited resources and support • Clients who fasted for screening event • Overweight youth
Low-risk populations include: • Individuals participating in most screenings, presentations and health fairs
AWARENESS
Health Screenings: Throughout the year a variety of health screenings are held to check for warning signs and provide information about your health. Times, dates and locations are publicized through the media and can be found in the Calendar. Free blood pressure checks are also provided each day at the WMHS Community Health and Wellness.
Screenings include: Blood Pressure Body Mass Index (BMI) Cholesterol Fasting Blood Glucose HbA1c Osteoporosis (bone density) Waist to Hip Ratio
Health Risk Appraisals
There are two assessment tools offered, the holistic lifestyle questionnaire and the health risk appraisal. The HLQ is a 50 question assessment encompassing six dimensions of wellness and emphasizes the importance of creating balance in one’s life. The HRA is used to assess an individual’s health status and risk. The results will identify areas for improvement and enable one to monitor health changes over time. A nominal fee is charged.
Health Fairs
Whether focused on one topic or more, health fairs combine information and screenings to increase awareness, promote health, and prevent disease. WMHS sponsors a Community Health Fair annually and facilitates others at work sites and with the WMHS Parish Nurse Program.
EDUCATION
Nutritional Counseling
Appointments are available with a dietitian. Private sessions are available for nutritional counseling and for those learning to manage a variety of health issues. Nutrition counseling provides one-on-one education for a variety of modified diets and general nutrition information. Those who may benefit from this service are those who have hypertension, diabetes, obesity, renal disease, or eating disorders.
Community Presentations Health education programs lead by health care professionals are offered in the community to teach you how to manage disease, minimize health risks, and how to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Topics include tobacco cessation, stress management, nutrition, disease management. Programs are offered for a nominal fee or free of charge at various sites in the community. Times, dates and locations are publicized through the media and the Calendar.
Tobacco Cessation
Support is available to individuals who want to quit using tobacco products. WMHS Community Health and Wellness Staff will help develop a personalized plan for quitting and provide the information & resources needed. Group classes are scheduled based on demand and include four one hour sessions with presentations on addiction, stress management, nutrition and relapse prevention as well as an ongoing support system.
ACCESS
Community Health Access Program The CHAP program offers preventive and primary healthcare services to Allegany County residents who are uninsured and meet the financial eligibility guidelines. This unique program, a joint venture of the Western Maryland Health System and Allegany Health Right, assists uninsured adults gain access to appropriate health care, such as prescription programs, nutritional counseling, and diagnostic care. Please call the WMHS Community Health and Wellness for more information.
Allegany Community Access Program
In partnership with various health and human service providers, Allegany CAP helps uninsured adults access a range of services in the County. Through the Allegany CAP management information system, individuals are screened for potential eligibility in over 40 area programs.
SUPPORT
Mallwalkers
This walking program is available at the Country Club Mall in LaVale. Walk the mall at your own pace each Monday through Saturday beginning at 8:00 a.m. Walkers can take advantage of monthly blood pressure checks.
Senior Connection
People age 55 and older who want to stay healthy, active, and involved can become a member of Senior Connection and access a variety of services. Membership entitles you to free and discounted services, including health education programs, health screenings, social activities, and more. The Senior Connection newsletter features details about the activities and topics of interest.
Energize Your Life!
This community initiative aims to reduce obesity risks and encourage balance in life. Energize Your Life! focuses on four components: Eat Smart, Be Active, Get Up & Out, and Be Connected. Various presentations, challenges, and toolkits have been developed around this slogan.
Individuals...
Learn about your health risks
Find health information and how to access local services
Identify healthy changes that will make you feel better
Help develop a personalized plan for making healthy lifestyle choices
Employers...
Assess and report on the overall health risks of employees
Implement on-site health promotion and health protection programs targeted to address the identified risks
Increase productivity by improving the health risk profile of employees
Reduce employee absenteeism and health care costs by improving their health