Regular health exams and screenings are useful tools in maintaining good health.  The earlier a person can detect an illness, the easier it is to treat. Unfortunately, the cost of healthcare is steadily on the rise; many people are unable to afford even the most basic health services. In Muscogee County alone, 18 percent of the population lives on or below the poverty level; those who are not insured by Medicaid or Medicare are left at a disadvantage. The Health Expo's focus is addressing this growing burden in the community. 

Since the Health Expo began, more than 12,000 people have taken part in the event and over 51,900 health screenings were given at no cost to the participant. This year, an estimated 974 people participated in the expo. Over half of all attendees came this year for the first time, and over a quarter of all participants claimed to have no health insurance at all.
   

 "This year's event went favorably," said Mark Ellis, public health employee and Health Expo Coordinator. "The last couple of years we have worked through identifying areas of congestion and resolving glitches."