Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

RALEIGH GENERAL HOSPITAL, Beckley, WV
First Friday Fitness

What is it? 
First Friday Fitness is a project of Raleigh General Hospital that sets up a station in the center court of its local mall to provide 200 to 250 free health screening each month. Nurses and other clinical staff supervisors perform blood pressure and blood sugar checks, and they also distribute certificates that can be redeemed at the hospital for a free lipid panel screening. Useful materials on a variety of health topics such as fitness tips, self screening information, cardiovascular health, first aid, and other relevant topics are also made available. These monthly sessions sometimes focus on a particular topic. For example, during the October event special emphasis was place on breast cancer. During the fall months, extra staff is on hand to administer 400 to 500 free Flu shorts. The hospital also supports the Mall Walkers program by providing large scale floor stickers (including the hospital logo) that measure the mileage for mall walkers.

Who is it for?  
All residents of Beckley and surrounding counties may take advantage of these monthly events.

Why do they do it? 
To increase the health awareness and wellbeing of area residents.

How do they do it? 
Raleigh General Hospital is recognized as the mall's official health care sponsor and has banners hanging throughout the mall, promoting the hospital and its services. On first Fridays, the mall's PA system announces that the event is being held and encourages visitors to stop by.  Raleigh General also periodically advertises in the local newspaper and on local television to promote upcoming events.

Contact: Kevin McGraw
Director of Marketing
Telephone:304-256-4346
E-mail: g.mcgraw@lpnt.net