Florida A&M University Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate Bruce James II will team up with Cynthia Butler to launch the Bainbridge Health Initiative (BHI).
BHI is a series of free health screenings that will take place throughout Bainbridge, GA over the next few months. The first event will be held Friday, July 24 from 4-5:30 p.m.
The program aims to raise awareness about health concerns within the community and express the importance of practicing a healthy lifestyle.
James passionately explained what prompted what the initiative.
“Bainbridge Health Initiative is a premiere program aimed to increase knowledge of healthy behaviors,” said James. “When you know better, you do better and raising knowledge will inevitably encourage adherence, which will lead to a healthier Bainbridge.”
Blood pressure screenings, blood glucose screenings, and body mass index calculations will all be offered to residents at no cost.
Pharmacist, Crystal Freeman, along with interns from the Florida A&M University’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical sciences have volunteered to counsel any individual who may have questions regarding their health.
Freeman’s family resides in Bainbridge, giving her a personal interest in the initiative as well.
“Having family that still resides in Bainbridge, it is extremely important that they have access to healthcare resources such as: current information on disease states and the medications for the best treatment,” said Freeman. “It is also important that they are aware of healthier diet options and lifestyle choices.”
FAMU pharmacy students will also gain hands-on experience preparing them for their future in healthcare.
Cynthia Butler, Resident Activity Coordinator at Rivers Apartment Complex in Bainbridge, Ga. explains that the objective of this event is to encourage Bainbridge residents to practice healthy habits and alleviate contributions to health issues.
“Making sure that people stay on top of their health and take care of their bodies is a value of mine,” said Butler. “I’m always concerned with the health and well being of the children as well.”
Future events in the BHI series will be tailored toward specific health behaviors in an effort to reduce health disparities in the community.