New Perry County Health Department director will focus on prevention

Newly appointed Perry County Health Department administrator Barb Taylor--now state certified--says her focus is clear.

"I'm all about prevention," she said. That idea is galvanized in the department's theme of "We Choose Health."

"Prevention is where I am taking this department," she said.

Taylor is surrounded by a group of nurses and clinicians who believe the same thing and want to be Perry County's health resource of choice.

And, there's a lot to talk about.

The department does cholesterol and diabetic A1C testing.

A1C is a blood test done in a health department office, doctor's office or in a laboratory. An A1C shows your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months-and, by extension, how well your blood sugar is being controlled over time. Generally, doctors recommend that you get an A1C test up to 4 times a year.

It's important to know your A1C because it tells how balanced your blood sugar level is staying over time. Balanced blood sugar means that your blood sugar level is neither too high nor too low. It stays within a healthy range.

"This test catches problems early and you can start treatment," she said.

For women, "Until now the nearest places to rent hospital grade breast pumps are Marion and Mount Vernon," says Taylor.

"Any mother can rent one from us more cheaply here," she said. "We have four certified lactation counselors," including breastfeeding peer counselor Emily Rakers who sat next to her talking about the department's services.

"We have a new health educator. Her name is Nicole Marlow, R.N.," said Taylor.

"She is involved with work site wellness and smoke free public places," she said. "Kids are making smoke-free signs." That work is focused in Pinckneyville at the moment, but will quickly spread to Du Quoin. "We chose health" flows throughout the program.

The department is encouraging the use of the area's walking tracks now that the weather is breaking.

"Three businesses have signed up for our worksite health program," said Taylor.

The department also has a broad offering of immunizations and will find ways to help you pay for them.

There are family wellness programs, car seat safety programs and advice on almost every level of preventative medicine.

Taylor said Terri Asbury is the department's home health coordinator.

The resources to "choose health" are truly endless. The department can be reached at 357-5371.