Department of Health Services
57392 M-51 South, P.O. Box 180, Dowagiac, MI 49047
(269)782-4141 or toll-free at 1-888-440-1234
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Community Health Representative (CHR)
WHAT IS A CHR?
- A CHR is a Community Health Representative
WHO ARE CHR’S?
- CHR’s are trained health outreach workers
- CHR’s are members of your community
- CHR’s are a part of the Band’s Community Health team
WHERE DO CHR’S WORK?
- CHR’s work in the community, clinics, and home settings
What DO CHR’S DO?
- CHR’s work to improve the health of our community and individual members
HOW DO CHR’S WORK TOWARDS THIS GOAL?
- By specializing in and delivering health care activities to you, such as foot care, optical or eyeglass fitting, diabetes teaching, health screening and health education
- By being your health advocate and link to health care services and supplies
WHY DO CHR’S SCREEN FOR DIABETES?
- American Indians and Alaska Natives are at higher risk for Diabetes type 2 than other groups in the United States
- Diabetes 2 (Adult onset Diabetes) is being found in adolescent children in our and other Native communities
- Screening leads to detection: the earlier self-management is learned and treatment is started the better your chances are to feel better, and delay or avoid serious complications
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A CHR VISITS?
On the first visit:
- The CHR will ask you a few questions related to your health history. This information remains confidential
- The CHR will screen you for Diabetes by asking questions and, if you consent, the CHR will do a finger stick for a RANDOM GLUCOSE TEST. The CHR will prick your finger to get a drop of blood to test your blood sugar level. High blood sugar levels are a characteristic of Diabetes
- The CHR may check your blood pressure
- The CHR will talk with you about your health needs and services that can help you
On subsequent visits, the CHR may follow up to:
- Bring you health information and supplies
- Check your blood pressure and other vital signs
- Check your blood sugar level
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