By Greg Ellison

Staff Writer

(Oct. 17, 2019) A host of free medical screenings are available during the ninth annual Ocean Pines Community Health Fair on Saturday from 8 a.m.-noon at the community center.

The Ocean Pines Association sponsors the event in conjunction with Atlantic General Hospital and Peninsula Regional Medical Center to provide community access to testing services for vital heath issues.

Katelynne Hunt, with Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks, said skin screenings are one of the most popular services offered, with early detection of melanoma especially critical for beach dwellers.

“People love being seen by the dermatologist,” she said.

Among the laundry list of tests to be provided are checks of cholesterol levels, hearing, blood pressure, as well as foot checks and bone-density mini exams.

Hunt said the most sought-after service is typically the no-cost flu shots provided by Atlantic General Hospital.

“Flu shots [are] the number one thing people come here for,” she said.

Hunt said flu shots are offered for ages 13 or older, with younger parties advised to consult a pediatrician.

Although age restrictions are not involved, Hunt said the health fair generally attracts older adults, with a smattering of people between the ages of 30-40.

“The majority of people are 55 or older,” she said.

Beyond monitoring precise health matters, the PRMC Mobile Health Van will offer participants information on overall wellbeing and personal safety.

Other screenings include glucose, pulse oximetry, carotid, lipids, with lab work for glucose and lipid panels requiring patients fast 12-hours prior.

Hunt said while exact attendance figures are not available, based on past years roughly 500 people are anticipated this Saturday.

Door prizes will also be awarded, with further details and entry forms available on Saturday.

For more information contact Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks by emailing rec@oceanpines.org or calling 410-641-7052.

Photo courtesy: Ocean Pines Association
In addition to a wealth of free medical screenings, the PRMC Mobile Health Van will be onsite during the ninth annual Ocean Pines Community Health Fair on Saturday to provide information on overall wellbeing and personal safety.