By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Area health providers conduct lab fairs throughout the year where patients, without an order from a doctor, can pick which lab work they would like at discounted prices. The Barton County Health Department offers a similar service year-round. Nurse Supervisor Lindsey Ensley said February is Heart Health Month, and bloodwork is a good way to stay proactive.
"You can walk into our clinic any time during business hours and have labs drawn," she said. "We don't do everything, mostly screening things - CBC, CMP, those kinds of things - but this time of year, and considering Heart Health Month, you can get your cholesterol checked and take those things to your doctor if something is out of range."
There is a $10 draw fee per visit but the health department offers a variety of discounted testing, including complete blood counts (CBC) for $7.83, or a comprehensive metabolic profile (CMP) for $9.78. Other tests can screen for diabetes and liver functioning.
"The results are mailed to the patient or they can come pick them up if they need them sooner," said Ensley. "Usually, turnaround is one business day with the lab we use. It's very convenient."
The Barton County Health Department is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday. Clinic services are closed from noon to 1 p.m. each day. CLICK HERE for a full list of labs offered by the health department.