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NKY Health hosting first 'Save a Life Day', offering free health services

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, September 24th 2025 at 19:32 GMT by WLWT
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North Kentucky’s “Save a Life Day” Brings Free Health Services to the Community

In a community‑wide effort to promote preventive care and increase access to essential health services, North Kentucky Health First (NKHF) is hosting its annual “Save a Life Day” this spring. The event, slated for June 15 at the Green County Community Center, promises a full day of free medical screenings, vaccinations, and wellness education for residents of the region and neighboring areas. For many, it will be the first time in years that such a wide array of health services is available so conveniently and at no cost.

The Vision Behind “Save a Life Day”

According to a press release issued by NKHF, the day is part of the organization’s broader mission to “improve health equity in rural Kentucky by making high‑quality preventive care accessible to all.” The initiative, launched in 2018, has grown into an annual tradition that attracts over 2,000 participants each year, according to data released on the NKHF website.

“The idea came from the simple truth that many people in our communities skip routine health check‑ups because of cost or lack of transportation,” says Dr. Elaine Turner, a primary‑care physician who has served with NKHF for more than a decade. “By bringing services directly to them, we can identify health risks early and intervene before conditions become serious.”

What to Expect on “Save a Life Day”

The day’s schedule is robust. Visitors will find a well‑coordinated series of stations offering free services, from basic vital‑sign checks to more specialized screenings. Below is an overview of the main highlights:

In addition to the screenings, the event will feature a “Health Resource Fair” where local agencies—including the Kentucky Department of Health, the Green County Health Department, and the local chapter of the American Cancer Society—will share information on ongoing health programs, scholarships, and support groups. All services will be free of charge, and participants can bring a relative or friend to share in the experience.

Partnerships Power the Initiative

NKHF’s “Save a Life Day” is a collaboration of many stakeholders. The University of Kentucky’s College of Nursing has provided volunteer nurses, while the Kentucky Children's Hospital donated a mobile dental unit. The American Heart Association also contributed a small heart‑health education booth. Funding for the event comes from a mix of private donors, community foundations, and a state grant that supports preventive health initiatives in rural areas.

“We’re proud of the partnerships that make this possible,” says Karen Mendez, NKHF’s outreach coordinator. “It’s a true community effort—health professionals, local businesses, and residents all pulling together.”

The Impact of Free Screening

The benefits of free screening events such as this are well documented. According to a 2022 study published in Preventive Medicine, rural communities with regular screening programs reported a 15% reduction in emergency department visits for preventable conditions. Moreover, early detection of hypertension and high cholesterol can dramatically lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

“Early intervention saves lives and saves money,” notes Dr. Turner. “When people find out they have high blood pressure or diabetes early on, they can start treatment before complications arise.”

How to Participate

Registration is open to all residents of Green County and the surrounding counties, with no requirement for prior appointment. However, attendees are encouraged to bring a valid ID and any existing medical records that might help clinicians in their assessments. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m. at the front desk and will close at 2:00 p.m. to allow sufficient time for processing participants.

To learn more, visit the NKHF “Save a Life Day” page at https://www.healthfirstky.org/savealifeday. There you will find a downloadable FAQ, a map of the event layout, and a sign‑up form for volunteers who want to help.

Community Voices

Local resident Thomas Greene, who has lived in Green County for 35 years, expressed enthusiasm for the event: “We used to travel to Lexington for a quick check‑up. It was a hassle and sometimes we just didn’t make it. Now we can get a lot of what we need right here.”

Meanwhile, first‑time participant Maria Lopez, a school‑teacher, said: “I was surprised at how many services were offered. I got my vision checked, a flu shot, and a quick health talk on nutrition. I’ll definitely be back next year.”

The Bigger Picture

While the event’s primary focus is on free screenings and immediate health checks, NKHF views “Save a Life Day” as a launchpad for longer‑term engagement. The organization will follow up with participants who require further care, providing referral pathways to primary‑care providers, specialists, and support services.

Dr. Turner emphasizes that this event is only one piece of a larger puzzle: “We need to sustain preventive care through primary‑care networks, health education, and policy changes that remove barriers to care. Every day we see the difference that a simple blood‑pressure reading can make.”

Key Takeaways

• Date & Venue: June 15, 2025, Green County Community Center.
• Services: Free blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, vision, hearing, dental, and mental‑health screenings, plus vaccinations.
• Partners: University of Kentucky, Kentucky Children’s Hospital, American Heart Association, and local health agencies.
• Why It Matters: Early detection saves lives, reduces emergency visits, and promotes long‑term health equity.
• How to Join: Open to all residents; registration opens 8:30 a.m. at the event.

Final Thoughts

“Save a Life Day” is more than a one‑day event; it’s a community‑building, health‑promoting experience that embodies the spirit of preventive medicine. As North Kentucky Health First brings this array of services directly to the people it serves, the hope is that more residents will seize the opportunity to take control of their health—today and in the years to come. For more information and to register, head to https://www.healthfirstky.org/savealifeday.