Kern Valley Healthcare District held its annual Spring Health Faire on April 7-8 at Kern Valley Hospital in Mt. Mesa. On Monday, in the Kern Valley Hospital cafeteria there was a low cost ($10) lipid panel blood draw test that included cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, VLDL, LDL, and a calculated coronary risk factor. The tests usually cost at least $125. A free continental breakfast of nutritious snacks followed. Patients had to fast for 12 hours before the draw, but water and medication were allowed. The Health Faire on the following day, April 8, was held from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m in the hospital cafeteria. Here, representatives from various organizations were available for consultations; they gave out information and provided many free health services. Those who had the lipid blood draw on April 7 were able to discuss their test results on that day. Participants could also request their test results be mailed to their home or faxed to their physician if they were unable to attend on April 8. 'KVHD is always looking for new ways to partner with other organizations to improve the health and wellness of our citizens,' said Jeanette Rogers.

Sharon Graham of the Citizens Service Unit awaits Health Faire attendees on Tuesday morning.