Clinic Blog

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and our First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Colona note that September is Sexual Health Awareness Month.  Sexual Health Awareness Month is an annual observance held throughout September to raise awareness about the importance of sexual health and well-being. The reasons behind observing this month are manifold:

• Promoting Safe Practices.  One of the primary goals of Sexual Health Awareness Month is to educate individuals on the importance of practicing safe sex. It’s an opportunity to discuss the use of contraceptives, including condoms and birth control, to prevent unintended pregnancies and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Breaking Stigmas.  Sexual health issues often carry a significant societal stigma, which can discourage individuals from seeking help or information. By observing this month, we aim to break down these stigmas, create a safe space for discussions, and encourage open and honest conversations about sexual health.
• Empowering Individuals.  Education is a powerful tool for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health. 

With these goals in mind, Sexual Health Awareness Month is an opportune time to remind area residents that the First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer confidential:

• STD Testing for Males and Females
• Treatment of STDs
• Contraceptive Supplies
• Free Condoms
• Preventative immunizations against such STDs as Hepatitis B and HPV ~ Counseling, Education, and Referral 
• Expedited Partner Treatment

Though the subject of one’s sexual health may not be a comfortable healthcare issue to discuss, we want people to remember that our First Choice Healthcare locations in Kewanee and Colona are sources of confidential testing, treatment, and education.   And we are literally just a phone call away.  People should know we offer the tools and services people need to stay healthy.

For more information or appointments call First Choice Healthcare at (309) 852-5272 (Kewanee) or 792-4011 (Colona).

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and their First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Colona note that Valentine’s Day kicks off the important health designation of National Condom Week, February 14-21.  Americans spend almost $20 billion each year on candy, cards, flowers and other gifts for Valentine’s Day.  The Health Department is encouraging residents to add another item to their gift list-condoms.

The primary goal of National Condom Week is to promote safe sex and normalize the use of condoms.  The Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare note, “Of all birth control methods available, the condom is the only option that also protects against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Syphilis. With this in mind, we believe National Condom Week is also an opportune time to remind area residents that our First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer confidential:"
~ Free Condoms
~ STD Testing for Males and Females
~ Treatment of STDs
~ Contraceptive Supplies
~ Preventative immunizations against such STDs as Hepatitis B and HPV 
~ Counseling, Education, and Referral 
~ Expedited Partner Treatment

"Though the subjects of Condoms and STDs may not be a comfortable healthcare issue to discuss, we want people to remember we are a source of confidential education, prevention, testing and treatment.   And we are literally just a phone call away.  People should know we offer the tools and services people need to stay healthy."

First Choice Healthcare accepts medicaid payments, insurance, and cash payment.  A sliding fee scale, based on the client's income, has been established to assist low-income families to obtain services.  In addition, grant funds are available for those who meet certain eligibility requirements.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call our First Choice Healthcare locations at (309) 852-5272 KEWANEE or (309) 792-4011 COLONA.  You may also find us on Facebook at First Choice Healthcare or Follow Us on Twitter and Instagram.

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and their First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Colona note that September 26th has been designated World Contraception Day

The primary goal of World Contraception Day campaign centers around a vision where every pregnancy is wanted. Launched in 2007, WCD’s mission is to improve awareness of contraception and to enable young people to make informed choices on their sexual and reproductive health. 

With this in mind, we believe World Contraception Day is also an opportune time to remind area residents that our First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer confidential services:
~ Free Condoms
~ STD Testing for Males and Females
~ Treatment of STDs
~ Contraceptive Supplies
~ Preventative immunizations against such STDs as Hepatitis B and HPV ~ Counseling, Education, and Referral 
~ Expedited Partner Treatment

"Though the subjects of Contraception, Condoms and STDs may not be comfortable healthcare issues to discuss; we want people to remember we are a source of confidential education, prevention, testing and treatment.   And we are literally just a phone call away.  People should know we offer the tools and services people need to stay healthy."

First Choice Healthcare accepts medicaid payments, insurance, and cash payment.  A sliding fee scale, based on the client's income, has been established to assist low-income families to obtain services.  In addition, grant funds are available for those who meet certain eligibility requirements.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call our First Choice Healthcare locations at (309) 852-5272 KEWANEE or (309) 792-4011 COLONA.  You may also find us on Facebook at First Choice Healthcare or Follow Us on Twitter and Instagram.