In 1980, the “health fair” concept was developed by Dr. John F. Brensike. His research at the National Institute of Health in Washington, D.C. led to the formation of the National Health Screening Council for Volunteer Organizations. This became the vehicle for promoting preventative health maintenance throughout the nation. In Fort Wayne, the ABC affiliate, WPTA-TV and the American Red Cross chose to partner and plan for health fairs in their service areas of northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio. An advisory committee was formed in 1980 with our first health fair offered in 1981.

In 1993 the Focus on Health program became a Midwest Alliance for Health Education Community Affairs Project.
The Midwest Alliance for Health Education is a 501 © 3 non-profit organization and the managing sponsor for Focus on Health.


Adult Focus on Health Program
Every spring, Focus on Health provides the community with free health checks and interactive learning centers to assist our participants in making informed health care choices and to detect disease in pre-symptomatic stages. In a traveling “health fair” format offered in 12-14 locations throughout our communities, individuals can access this free or low cost service in various settings. To date, well over 146,000 adults between the ages of 18-100 have benefited from this program.

At each location, free health checks include:

• blood pressure measurement
• visual acuity (near and far vision)
• height/weight/BMI

In addition, a health summary review with professional nurse volunteers can provide referral service and resource information. Many of the locations will have osteoporosis, hearing, foot, oral cancer screenings and access to balance testing at a few locations.

A blood chemistry profile, hemogram, PSA (prostate), TSH (thyroid), A1c (blood sugar average) and Vitamin D are available at all locations for a nominal fee. (See Health Checks/Screening)