The Chester County Health Department in Henderson hosted an open house on Friday, Oct. 30, that paired Halloween fun for children with practical health services for adults.
What visitors found
WBBJ-TV reported that the open house included a teddy bear clinic, where children could bring a favorite stuffed animal for a pretend check-up. Adults could get blood pressure checks, learn about community resources and pick up naloxone, the medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. There were games and prizes for children, who were encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes.
A teddy bear clinic is a common public-health tool. By letting children play caregiver for a toy patient, it makes a real clinic visit less intimidating.
Why the department did it
Josh Moore, the county director of the Chester County Health Department, told WBBJ the goal was "to increase community awareness about the services that we provide" and to give the community "a space to come enjoy a fun afternoon" on what he called a beautiful day.
Where to go
The health department is at 301 Quinco Drive in Henderson. County health departments in Tennessee generally offer services by appointment or during weekday hours, so residents should call before they visit.
Sources: WBBJ-TV