Child health week set

October 1-7 is Child Health Week in Tennessee. The theme for this year is, “A Healthy Tennessee Begins with a Healthy Me!” Across Tennessee and Cannon County, providers of children’s services are using this week to promote good health habits that will help children lead long and healthy lives.

 In October, Cannon County students in grades K, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 9 are asked to participate in an annual health screening at their school. While only a doctor can diagnosis a medical condition, screenings are tools that assist in the detection of health concerns. When such concerns are identified early, steps can be taken to access needed healthcare in hopes that health and academic issues do not develop into serious problems. In an effort to identify such concerns, Cannon County students are screened for vision, body mass index (height and weight), and blood pressure. During the screening process, students’ dignity and privacy are respected at all times. Any deviations from a normal screening will result in a referral letter mailed to the parent or guardian. Passive permission forms (forms parents sign and return only if they do not want their child to participate) are currently being distributed to students in grades K, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 9. Parents do not have to return the form if their child has permission to participate. Any parent not receiving a permission form can access one online at www.ccstn.com by selecting the Department of Coordinated School Health. Parents may also acquire a form from their child’s school or at the Central Office of Cannon County Schools.  Those with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Connie Foster, Director of Coordinated School Health, at 615-563-5752 ext. 245 or connie.foster@ccstn.com.

 Beginning on October 12^th, ninth grade students at Cannon County High School will be participating in a TENNderCARE event which promotes medical and dental checkups. Freshman students bringing proof of a checkup will receive great prizes.

 The TENNderCare program wants children, teens, and young adults under age 21 to be healthy and receive what they need to stay that way.  This program gives children on TennCare free checkups. For those on TennCare who do not have a doctor, the checkup can be performed at the Cannon County Health Department.  A checkup includes gathering facts about the child’s health, lab work, a complete physical examination, hearing and vision screening, development and behavior screening, and immunizations if it’s time for the child’s shots.  The TENNderCare program also pays for dental care and will help provide a ride to the doctor’s office if needed. If you have questions about TENNderCARE, need to make an appointment, or need a ride to the doctor, call the Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287 (V) or 1-800-772-7647 (TTY/TDD).