VISION & HEARING
Technicians provide screening in schools, pre-schools, Headstart, and at monthly Health Department Clinics. Hearing and vision problems can lead to difficulties both at school and at home. Children 3 years and older can be screened. Those needing follow-up will be referred to a physician for care.
Hearing and Vision screenings are held on the third Friday of every month. Call the Ionia County Health Department at (616) 527-5341 for an appointment.
Most people think of immunizations as, “those shots you get when you are a kid”, but immunizations are much more than that. Vaccinations help to protect people from becoming sick with diseases which used to be very common. Measles, mumps, rubella were all common illnesses at one time, now it is very rare to see a case. This is because these three illnesses can all be prevented by a single vaccination. Even diseases such as chicken pox, which many adults had to go through, can be prevented through immunizations.
Immunizations not only protect the person who is vaccinated, but they can help protect society from disease. When vaccination levels in a community are high, the few who cannot be vaccinated for various reasons are protected through “group immunity”. Group Immunity occurs from the lack of exposure to disease. If no one in the community is getting sick, then the unvaccinated ones will not be exposed.
A majority of vaccinations are recommended for children from birth to 6 years. But vaccinations are not just for children. Older adults can reduce their risk of several life-threatening diseases through immunizations. It is recommended that older adults should be vaccinated for Pneumonia and Influenza. Also, JoAnne Eakins, Personal Health Director for the Ionia County Health Department said that everyone needs to remember that no matter what age you are, you need to have a tetanus shot every 10 years.
Vaccines are safe and effective. You can live stronger, longer by making sure you and your children’s immunizations are up to date.
Immunizations are available to eligible children at Health Department Clinics throughout the County. You can also receive immunizations from your health care provider. Click here for CDC Immunization Schedule.
Immunizations are available at the Ionia County Health Department. Click here for information on hours and locations for Immunizations. Click here for immunization fees.
TUBERCULIN (TB) SKIN TEST
TB skin tests are given during regular immunization clinic hours and must be read 48 to 72 hours after administration. There is a charge for TB tests.
CHILDREN’S SPECIAL HEALTH CARE SERVICES
Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) has been committed to helping children with handicaps or chronic health problems develop to their fullest potential. This committment emphasizes family-centered, community based, coordinated services. CSHCS provides payment for medical care beyond insurance coverage from birth to 21 years for individuals with medically-qualifying conditions under the care of participating specialists. Families in all income levels are eligible for enrollment. However, some families may be required to share the cost of care through a payment agreement. Click here for CSHCS Family Rights and Responsibilities.
Toll Free Parent Hotline
HEALTHY KIDS & MICHILD
Children up to 19 years of age and pregnant women may qualify for medical insurance. Both Healthy Kids and MIChild have great dental insurance for children. There is a small monthly fee for the MIChild program.
BREAST & CERVICAL CANCER CONTROL PROGRAM
Women age 40 and over may be eligible for free mammograms, pelvic exams, Pap tests, and follow-up services if they are not insured through an HMO or Medicare, Part B. Early detection is your best protection! Call the Tony Balice Clinic at 616-523-1600 for details and to make an appointment.
WOMEN INFANTS CHILDREN (WIC)
A nutrition program for medically and financially eligible pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children to age five. Through this program clients receive milk, eggs, juice, cereal, cheese, and peanut butter. Infants receive formula, cereal, and juice. Nutrition education classes are available. Click here for more information about WIC. Click Here for assistance with breastfeeding.
Children living in dwellings with a high environmental risk for lead poisoning and who are 12 months to 6 years of age can be screened through a blood test and environmental questionnaire. Those with high lead levels will be referred for further testing. There is a fee for the screening. Medicaid can be billed for this test. Click here for Lead Information or Click Here for Lead Poisoning Tips.