The Hispanic population in Nassau County has almost doubled from 77,386 in 1990 to 133,282 in 2000. In addition to the obvious language barriers from the rapid growth of this predominantly Spanish-speaking community, it has been estimated that more than half of the population is uninsured. To address these issues, Winthrop-University Hospital is planning its third annual Hispanic Health Fair, "Diga Si a la Buena Salud," to promote health and wellness in the Hispanic community.This year's event, "Diga Si en 2004," will take place May 6 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Fair will feature free health screenings, including diabetes, blood pressure and nutritional counseling. Attendees will also have access to some of Winthrop's leading experts on such issues as infection control, women's and children's health, medications, genetics, strokes and others. Representatives will also be on site to provide participants with information on Child Health Plus and Family Health Plus. In an effort to promote the health and wellness of the Hispanic community, Winthrop has focused on improving access to programs and services. Through the Diga Si A La Buena Salud initiative, bilingual patient navigators assist patients in the identification of healthcare providers and acquire background information on specific diseases. In addition, a program was designed to teach Winthrop employees Spanish, and a series of educational programs in Spanish are now offered.Parents are encouraged to bring their children to Diga Si En 2004 to enjoy free craft projects, family photos, Latin music and food. Hospital tours will be offered to help attendees learn more about the extensive resources available at Winthrop.The health fair and dinner are free for those participants who pre-register, or $7 at the door. The fair will be held at Winthrop's Community Outreach Center at 101 Mineola Boulevard in Mineola. For more information or to pre-register, call 1-866-WINTHROP.
Nassau Health seeks volunteers
Are you willing to give some of your time in service to those in need? If the answer is yes, Nassau Health Care Corporation needs you to volunteer a few hours each week to benefit patients and visitors at its various community health care centers in Westbury, Freeport, Elmont and Hempstead.The Auxiliary Department at the hospital oversees hundreds of volunteers and junior volunteers, who perform many duties. Some play with and read to the children in the center's pediatric ward. Others assist with clerical work. The hospital is also in need of volunteer interpreters who can assist in interpreting in foreign languages such as Spanish, French, Creole, Polish, Russian and Chinese. In fact, volunteers help out where they are needed, and everything they do benefits the patients, visitors and staff at our various facilities. Volunteers must be 14 years of age or older. A physical is required prior to acceptance. Volunteers must make a commitment to come in at least four hours per week. Although they will be placed according to need, the Auxiliary makes an effort to match volunteers' interest and skills with their assigned jobs. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer at the community health centers, call Gerald Mondschein at 572-3100.
Far Rockaway Treatment Center adds important services
The Far Rockaway Treatment Center, a community-based alcohol/chemical dependency program of The Zucker Hillside Hospital, recently moved to expand quarters at 1600 Central Avenue in Far Rockaway.Anyone whose life has been affected by the disease of alcoholism/chemical dependency and whose psychological condition will not prevent him or her from actively participating in the program may be eligible. Groups are offered in such diverse areas as anger management, parenting skills, domestic violence, health education, self-help, spirituality and creative arts. Two new groups, DWI and a Spanish-speaking program, have recently been added. Parental consent is required for minors.The Far Rockaway Treatment Center is open Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.. The Center offers an adult outpatient rehabilitation program, an adult evening program, youth and family program, and an adult mental illness and chemical abuse/dependency program, as well as the new DWI and Spanish groups. The specific hours for each program vary.Medicaid, Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and other third party insurance plans may be accepted. People interested in learning more about the various programs and services offered by the center should call 718-868-1400 ext. 21. No one will be turned away due to an inability to pay. Sliding scale fees enable people to get the help they need regardless of income.
Demystifying the Science of Conception
Couples often wish to plan when they'll have a baby. However, when the time comes, they sometimes discover they're having difficulty becoming pregnant. As discouraging as this may be, there is help available.In an effort to aid those who are experiencing problems conceiving, Winthrop-University Hospital's Women's Health Forum will present a free lunch, "Demystifying the Science of Conception" March 24. The program begins with registration at 6:45 p.m., followed by the lecture at 7, at Winthrop's Community Outreach Center, 101 Mineola Boulevard in Mineola, at the corner of Second Street. Parking and the entrance are available in the rear of the building. Seating is limited and reservations are required. To reserve your space, call 1-888-53-WOMEN.
Mercy's Chinese auction
The Employee League at Mercy Medical Center is sponsoring a Chinese Auction April 17. The auction will be held at the Holiday Inn, 173 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre from noon to 4 p.m.The luncheon is $27 and includes 25 auction tickets. Tickets will also be available at the auction. Tickets are $5 for ten and $10 for 25. Nearly 100 prizes will be auctioned off. All proceeds will benefit the Employee League at Mercy Medical Center. To RSVP or for more information, call Jeannie Jaeger at 705-2589.
