For Salem Health’s Community Health Education Center, safety is top of mind this back-to-school season.

That’s why staff are directing a range of investments from sports physical clinics to helmet donations.

“Every year we try to be as engaged in the schools as much as possible,” said Nancy Pruett, manager of the CHEC. “That work starts in the preschools and goes through high school age with a variety of classes.”

Pruett said educators can request classes that touch on topics like managing screen time and healthy eating habits. But this season, the CHEC’s top priority is community safety.

Making sports accessible

“Sports physicals are a part of that work,” said Pruett. “Physical activity is one of the hallmarks of good health. It’s important that all students have an opportunity to engage in physical activity and sports.”

These clinics aimed to serve families in Marion and Polk counties including  those in the Santiam Canyon. In total, the CHEC arranged physicals for 162 students ranging from 11 to 17 years old throughout the summer.

“We know the impact sports have on mental health and children’s connection to the community,” said Pruett. “This gets them involved in healthy mentorship so they have people who can help guide them during challenging, formative years in their lives.”

These physicals were available to those without healthcare coverage, as well as those who simply couldn’t meet with their pediatrician in time for the upcoming season.

“If an issue is identified during the physical then the provider will do follow-up education and refer them to their provider or a specialist if needed,” said Pruett.

Bike and helmet safety

During back-to-school events, bike safety was another focus for the CHEC. Pruett said her team passed out more than 1,100 free helmets this year, including at Micronesian and Boys and Girls Club back-to-school events.

“We provided helmets to any student who would be biking to school for the school year, and we’re continuing to provide helmets at back-to-school nights,” she said. “We’re providing that resource and education so students who would otherwise be riding without a helmet will have one while parents are educated on how to fit those helmets properly.”

Investing in higher education

As students return to the classroom, Salem Health is also investing in those who will join the healthcare field.

This year, Salem Health partnered with the Willamette Career Academy to pay for second-year students to get their Certified Nursing Assistant certification.

“The healthcare industry needs local CNAs,” said Director of Community Outreach Tricia Frizzell. “Salem Health stepped up to fill that funding for the year, around $1,400 per student.”

This covers instruction and certification.

Pruett notes that prioritizing students and their safety is important at every stage.

“We’re trying to remove as many barriers as possible for our community,” she said.

Learn more

Are you interested in learning about the CHEC? Click here to learn more.