Senior Voice -

The Alaska Dept. of Health and Alaska Health Fair, Inc. are thrilled to announce the continuation of a vital screening program this fall through Alaska Health Fair, Inc. health fairs - free Hemoglobin A1C and Estimated Average Glucose tests. Our aim is to empower Alaskans with the information they need to lead healthier lives, by identifying early risks for diabetes and prediabetes.

Are you at risk? Take our short self-assessment survey at https://bit.ly/3rk9Djt to find out. If your survey result indicates a risk, and you’re not presently diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, you are eligible for a free A1C test this health fair season. The free tests are available to individuals 18 years and older. Our mission is to identify and assist individuals with undiagnosed diabetes or prediabetes. For those diagnosed with these conditions, scroll down for information on health insurance coverage for regular testing.

Claim your one free A1C screening this health fair season at selected venues. Exclusively for at-risk undiagnosed individuals. Take our on-site survey to qualify. There will be a limited quantity at most events as we strive to make this available to Alaskans statewide. If you have any questions or need further information, reach out to us at the contact phone numbers listed below.

While blood testing is an invaluable tool, it is not a complete diagnosis. We strongly urge you to share your blood test results with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive understanding of your health. For additional help, we offer a free guide at http://www.bit.ly/3XI76eQ featuring local and national resources for diabetes, pre-diabetes, and high blood pressure. Also, our health educator can answer general questions.

If you need assistance understanding your blood test results, please call our toll-free voicemail at 1-833-800-1292. An Alaska Health Fair Health Educator and RN will return your call and address your questions.

Your health is indeed a treasure, and this treasure extends to your loved ones too. Play a part in their wellness journey by sharing this announcement with them, because health, just like happiness, multiplies when shared.

Regular screenings are key to prevention and early intervention. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends adults age 35 to 70 who are overweight or obese get screened for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes once every three years. This testing is typically covered by insurance.

In addition, we’re happy to refer adults with prediabetes to free or low-cost diabetes prevention programs available both in-person and online. These include:

1. Omada Health, an online diabetes prevention program. Visit http://www.omadahealth.com/alaska to find out more.

2. InquisitHealth, a telephone-based diabetes prevention program. Fill out the form at https://bit.ly/3OadLdD to see if Inquisit is right for you.

3. Contact Leslie Shallcross at 907-474-2426 or lashallcross@alaska.edu

For more information, contact 907-278-0234 in Anchorage/statewide; 907-374-6853 in Fairbanks; 907-723-5100 in Juneau.

This project is made possible by the Alaska State Dept. of Health, Fresh Start, and Alaska Health Fair, Inc.