HAWC provides DOD civilians free on-site services

Published Sept. 17, 2010
By Stefan Bocchino
377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM -- The Kirtland AFB Health and Wellness Center offers Department of Defense civilians free comprehensive, on-site wellness services such as cardiac risk profiles, tobacco cessation, and health education classes.

"Receiving regular check-ups makes it easier to prevent a medical condition or to catch one in the early stages of development," said Lisa Roof, Civilian Health Educator at the HAWC. "This is especially important if you have a family history of health issues such as diabetes or colon cancer."

Knowing your cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose levels, and blood pressure are essential for tracking changes in your health. If you don't know your numbers finding out is easy and free through Air Force Materiel Command's partnership with Federal Occupational Health.

"The benefits of preventative health care are numerous," said Ms. Roof. "They may include many or all of the following: feeling in control of your health, increased quality of life, more disease-free years, greater mobility, reduced healthcare costs, and a more optimistic attitude about aging."

Classes cover a variety of topics such as allergies, migraines, and weight management.

For those that want to quit tobacco, there is a monthly tobacco cessation program that offers free Chantix to civilians.

"In October we are introducing new programs, Self-Care Basics and Injury Prevention, as a part of our outreach," said Ms. Roof. "Participants that complete both classes receive a free copy of 'Healthier at Home', a guide to self-care and wise health consumerism. It has 407 pages of tips, tricks, and suggestions for dealing with the most common medical ailments."

For more information or to schedule a screening or programming for your organizational unit call Lisa, Civilian Health Educator, at 846-1186 or email lisa.roof@kirtland.af.mil.