Monthly community paramedic clinic in Westlake
High blood pressure is often termed the "silent killer" because it increases risk of death, without any symptoms. BP results provide crucial information about health in general. No wonder BP checks are standard procedure in all of your physician visits.
Depending on age and health status, it is also something many are advised to monitor more frequently; a single blood pressure reading does not provide enough information to evaluate your health status.
Home blood pressure monitoring equipment has become commonplace. Many retail establishments also have blood pressure machine kiosks.
While this is positive, there is something to be said about the importance of in-person blood pressure clinics staffed by medical personnel who are licensed to provide advice and referrals. Let’s face it, sometimes we need the encouragement, or even a little “nudge” from an outsider when it is time to address a potential problem.
Drop-in blood pressure clinics can go a long way in preventing diseases, critical health events and hospitalizations.
At Westlake Community Services, we are excited to announce our new Community Paramedic Clinic, where blood pressure screenings are offered, plus much, much more.
This new clinic is available on the first Thursday of every month from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. It is a joint effort by UH St. John Medical Center and the Westlake Fire Department.
Adding firefighters to the clinic increases the community safety component of what is offered. Some of the special services they are able to promote first-hand include:
- File of Life: a magnetic red vinyl packet used to provide vital information to emergency personnel. EMS workers are trained to look for this information when responding to a medical emergency in the home.
- Roper Box: a box that the fire dept. would install on your door to give them access to a key. This enables EMS to gain entry into your home without having to damage a door. An especially good idea if you live alone and have some chronic health concerns.
- Smoke and CO detector installations and battery changes.
- Fire and fall prevention for older adults.
- Advice on urgent care versus emergency care.
According to Westlake Fire Chief, Matthew Moran, “Westlake Firefighters are here to serve the community in several capacities above and beyond responding to fires and medical emergencies. Many of our other services are geared toward improving the outcome or preventing the emergency altogether.”
Having the fire department join forces with the hospital helps us provide this innovative program to assist community members in taking control of their health AND home safety.
In addition to this monthly clinic, we are hosting a Health & Screening Fitness Day on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 10 a.m.-noon, where UH St. John Medical Center will once again be on hand to provide a wide array of health screenings including: cholesterol, glucose, depression, balance and, of course, blood pressure. Call 440-899-3544 to make your appointment. All services are free.
Westlake Community Services is located at 28975 Hilliard Blvd. (on the campus of the Westlake Recreation Department). Most of our activities and programs are geared for the 50+ population. You do not have to be a resident to partake. Call 440-899-3544 for more information, or check our newsletter on the city's website: www.cityofwestlake/org/community-services.
Lydia Gadd
I am the Director of the Community Services Department for the City of Westlake. I am also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.