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My group found our example for the “This is Public Health”
blog at Wal-Mart. As discussed in class, public health is EVERWHERE. So why did
we chose Wal-Mart? We’d like to argue that Wal-Mart is one of the most popular
(and convenient) stores in America, so we figured it must have some relevance
to public health. At first we discussed several different options for where to
place our sticker. When we arrived to Wal-Mart we noticed that there were hand
sanitizer stations conveniently located at the front of the store, and there was
also a no touch hand dryer located in the bathroom. However in the end we decided
to place our sticker on the blood pressure testing device provided for the
public (for free) in the pharmacy section. We felt like the convenience of its
location and prevalence of this device would be our best option for this
assignment. Why? Because not only is it accessible and easy to use, but it also
promotes prevention and self-assessment. Most people may not understand how to
properly read the results of a blood pressure test, so conveniently the device
provides easy to read instructions and average results. My group and I decided
that this would be a perfect example for public health because it promotes
awareness. This issue is very important because awareness (and possibly early
detection) promotes a healthy lifestyle. We as a group felt like awareness and
early detection are two of the biggest aspects of public health (and also core functions
of Public Health). Public health is all
around us, even if we don’t recognize it.
I think that this is a great choice of a Public health example. It's free and very convienent to see if your blood pressure is high or low, and being that high blood pressure is a issue in the United States; it's a perfect example of public health.
ReplyDeleteThe blood pressure testing device located at Wal-Mart was a great option for your This is Public Health sticker because like you stated previously, is very convenient and free to all customers! It is essential for people to maintain healthy blood pressure levels and this machine helps people to monitor that. A healthy lifestyle, does indeed begin with awareness. That is a very great point!
ReplyDeleteWhenever I go to any stores like Walk-Mart, CVS, or the mall in general, I love those free blood pressure sphygmomanometers available to the public. Sometimes people who use them find out that they have abnormal blood pressure and they were not even aware. Also it gives the younger children whoa re unaware of what it is, they will definitely learn something new. This was a great topic you guys picked! =)
ReplyDeleteThis IS public health! Every time I go into a Wal-Mart, I run the blood pressure machine to check my levels. This is a good way for someone to gage whether or not they have high or low blood pressure. This is a great option for those without insurance or those who hate going to the doctor. It’s also a great way to monitor your own levels in-between doctor visits. This is an awesome display of public health in a location visited often.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this group. I think that hypertension is a very undermined diagnosis that can often be prevented if detected early. Not only do they conveniently place the monitor in a strategic location where it can easily be seen and accessed, but it doesn't require a Doctor to diagnose the problem. As a user of this machine, you become familiar with your own personal health problems, which will motivate you to seek proper solutions and care. It is a great, effortless, and knowledgeable piece of Public Health equipment!
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ReplyDeleteThis was a great choice. Out of all the public health sites in Walmart I complete didn't think about the blood pressure machine. A lot of people don't have access to doctors especially with health insurance being so limited (as we learned in class). People also don't have the time so this is both convenient and efficient.
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