Alaska Health Fairs, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing Alaskans with accessible and affordable health services. Since 1980, they have been committed to promoting wellness across the state by organizing health fairs that offer low-cost screenings, education, and preventive services. Alaska Health Fairs cater to a diverse population, from urban centers to remote communities, ensuring that everyone—regardless of location—has the opportunity to take charge of their health.
Through these fairs, residents of rural communities like Talkeetna, Trapper Creek, and Willow gain access to critical health screenings that might otherwise be difficult to obtain. Health fairs are especially important in rural Alaska, where distance from healthcare providers can make it challenging to stay on top of preventive care. By bringing affordable health services to these communities, Alaska Health Fairs, Inc. plays a vital role in keeping Alaskans healthy.
Affordable Labs and Screenings for a Healthier Community
Each year, thanks to generous funding from the Mat-Su Health Foundation and the dedication of Sunshine Community Health Center’s team, residents in the Northern Valley benefit from discounted lab tests and meaningful health screenings. These affordable services are key to promoting healthier communities, as they help individuals monitor and address health concerns early on, preventing more serious issues down the line.
Sunshine Community Health Center is proud to be a part of these events, working alongside Alaska Health Fairs, Inc. to ensure that everyone has access to essential health resources. We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Trapper Creek Community Center, Willow Community Center, and Upper Susitna Senior & Community Center for their continued support in providing space for these important events year after year. Without their help, this work wouldn’t be possible.
Next Up: Talkeetna Community Health Fair
The next event in this year’s series is the Talkeetna Community Health Fair, happening on November 2, 2024 from 8 AM to 12 PM at the Upper Susitna Senior & Community Center.
Walk-ins are welcome, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to get a variety of health screenings at a reduced cost. These labs can give you valuable insight into your health and provide peace of mind. Here’s what you can expect at the event:
Blood Chemistry Screen (27 panels) – $45 A comprehensive test that includes checking cholesterol, liver and kidney function, and more. Recommended for anyone wanting to get a general sense of their overall health.
Thyroid Screen – $40 This test measures how well your thyroid is functioning. It’s crucial for those experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings.
Prostate Disease Screen – $25 For men over 50, or earlier for those with a family history, this screening helps detect prostate issues early on.
Vitamin D Screen (D2, D3) – $55 Particularly important for Alaskans, as we often don’t get enough sunlight. This test checks for vitamin D deficiencies, which can lead to bone and immune system problems.
A1C Diabetes Test – $25 This test measures blood sugar levels over the past few months and is essential for those at risk for or living with diabetes.
Blood Typing – $25 Knowing your blood type is important for a variety of health reasons, including emergencies and donating to our Alaska Blood Bank.
Vitamin B12 Screen – $40 Low B12 can cause fatigue, weakness, and neurological issues. This test is useful for vegetarians, the elderly, or anyone who may be deficient.
Ferritin – $40 This test measures iron stores in the body. It’s helpful for people experiencing fatigue, weakness, or other symptoms of low iron.
Testosterone (Men) – $55 For men experiencing symptoms such as low energy, mood changes, or low libido, this test checks testosterone levels to determine if they are within a healthy range.
Join Us for a Fun-Filled Community Event!
The Talkeetna Community Health Fair is more than just a place to get lab tests—it’s an event that brings people together in the spirit of wellness. Along with the screenings, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn about health, connect with your neighbors, and engage with local healthcare providers. It’s a great chance to take proactive steps toward better health while enjoying a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere.
So mark your calendars for November 2nd, and come join us at the Upper Susitna Senior & Community Center. Walk-ins are welcome, and we encourage everyone in the community to take part in this important, life-enhancing event.
For more information or to plan ahead, visit Alaska Health Fair or contact Sunshine Community Health Center for details.
Sunshine Community Health Center
1-907-376-2273 (CARE)
*This article was written with the support of AI*