A health fair aimed at improving the health of women and children is set to take place this weekend in Tulsa-metro. The Eastern Oklahoma Black Nurses Association, in partnership with the Tulsa Health Department and BlueCross Blue Shield, is hosting the event with the goal of increasing health literacy and connecting people to resources in the community.
Specifically, the organization aims to reduce disparities among people of color and increase vaccination rates among children. Leaders of the organization mentioned that students in Tulsa Public Schools are behind on immunizations, which is why they have partnered with the Tulsa Health Department and BlueCross Blue Shield to provide vaccinations through the Oklahoma Caring Van.
Linda DeJear emphasized the importance of education in addressing health issues, stating that awareness leads to more educated decisions and better utilization of community resources. The health fair will feature speakers and vendors focused on improving women’s health. Sessions will cover topics such as safe sleep demonstrations and discussions with OB-GYNs on maternal child health. Additionally, the national organization is working on improving maternal health and creating policies to prevent high maternal death rates among Black women.
About 15 vendors will be present at the event, offering information and resources for attendees. The free health fair will take place on Saturday, April 20 at Lacy Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Oklahoma Caring Van will also be available to provide vaccinations to children in need.