Military healthcare comes with its challenges, but it also offers valuable benefits. Military providers are dedicated to keeping service members healthy and mission-ready while also caring for their families. At Minot Air Force Base, the responsibility of maintaining the health and well-being of the base community falls on the 5th Medical Group (5MDG). In line with this mission, the annual Preventive Health Fair was created—and continues to be held—to promote proactive healthcare.
This year’s Health Fair will take place on Friday, March 28, at the Medical Group Clinic from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can explore booths offering valuable information on preventive healthcare, early screenings for major health concerns, and wellness resources. Lieutenant Colonel Donna Eaton of the 5MDG emphasized the importance of attending, stating, “Prevention is the best medicine. It is important for all of us to know how to prevent certain illnesses or at least catch them early. Cancer is one of the top diagnoses that we can detect early and treat.”
The fair will feature a wide range of healthcare topics, including Primary Care, Behavioral Health (with classes on healthy living and sleep), spiritual wellness with Chaplains, Public Health, free InBody Assessments (skeletal muscle and body fat composition), Military & Family Readiness Center (MFRC), Mental Health with True North, New Parent Support, the Red Cross, WIC, Physical Therapy, and more.
One exciting highlight of the event is the opportunity to try out “Drunk Goggles,” a hands-on experience simulating the effects of alcohol impairment. Additionally, the Red Cross will be present to share volunteer opportunities available right here on base.
Lt. Col. Eaton added, “March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, so why not end it with a bang? Our featured MegaColon exhibit and health prevention fair will highlight the three pillars of wellness—mind, body, and spirit. The 5th Medical Group and its partners have so much to offer for your wellness, so come see us and let us educate you!”
There’s no price tag on good health, and this event is completely free for all Tricare beneficiaries. So mark your calendars for Friday, March 28, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Medical Clinic, and take advantage of this opportunity to invest in your health and well-being.
