A health fair is scheduled to take place this weekend in Tulsa-metro, focusing on improving the health of women and children. The Eastern Oklahoma Black Nurses Association aims to enhance health literacy and connect individuals with available community resources. Additionally, the organization prioritizes education on reducing disparities among people of color and ensuring children are vaccinated.
Leaders of the organization noted that students in Tulsa Public Schools are lagging behind on immunizations, leading to a partnership with the Tulsa Health Department and BlueCross Blue Shield to provide necessary immunizations through the Oklahoma Caring Van. According to Linda DeJear, lack of education contributes to many health issues, emphasizing the importance of awareness to educate and empower individuals to take advantage of available resources in Tulsa.
Speakers and vendors at the health fair will concentrate on enhancing women’s health, covering topics such as safe sleep demonstrations and maternal child health discussions by OB-GYNS. Lisa Allen mentioned that the national organization is dedicated to improving maternal health and implementing policies to address the high mortality rates among Black women after childbirth, emphasizing the need to address biases and potential racism in healthcare.
With approximately 15 vendors present, the free health fair is scheduled for Saturday, April 20 at Lacy Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Oklahoma Caring Van will also be offering vaccinations for children in need during the event.