FREE AND LOW-COST HEALTH SCREENINGS

County residents have a range of options in free and low-cost health screenings and examinations. A number of institutions, including hospitals, community centers and senior centers, offer periodic “health fairs,” which are listed in Main Events each Saturday in Orange County Life. The services listed below are offered on an ongoing basis.

Orange County Health Care Agency, Public Health Department Information: (714) 834-7700 Offers: Free blood pressure screening at several locations in the county, including community centers, churches and businesses. Two regular locations are the Delhi Center in Santa Ana, (714) 549-1317, and the El Modena Community Center, (714) 532-3595.

UC Irvine Medical Plaza, Irvine Campus Information: (714) 856-8600 Offers: Low-cost colon cancer screening. The screening program uses a technique called flexible sigmoidoscopy, which employs fiber optics to visualize the lower third of the colon, where about 60% of cancers occur. Patients or their insurance companies will be charged only for the cost of facilities, testing and materials required for screening.

Huntington Beach Community Clinic Information: (714) 847-4222 Offers: A range of services, primarily family planning and gynecological services, but also TB testing, immunizations, monthly foot screenings, regular skin screenings. Fees charged on a sliding scale, according to income.

St. Jude Hospital and Rehabilitation Center Information: (714) 871-3280 Offers: A mobile child-care van that rotates between locations in Brea, Placentia, Fullerton and La Habra. Immunizations and health screenings provided for children through 14 years old. Donations only.

Lestonnac Free Clinic, Orange Information: (714) 633-4600 Offers: Free primary health care, including a range of medical screenings, to qualifying low-income patients.

Laguna Beach Community Clinic Information: (714) 834-7700 Offers: A range of medical tests and services, with fees charged on a sliding scale according to income.

Saint Joseph Hospital, Orange Information: (714) 633-9111 Offers: Free blood pressure screening the first Sunday of each month, except on holidays. Source: Individual organizations