Have health questions? Laois to host 'Ask the Experts' information event
Portlaoise library to host experts from wide range of organisations
A Laois library is set to host a health and wellbeing panel discussion next week, featuring health screenings, information stands and crime prevention advice.
'Ask the Experts' is hosted in collaboration with Laois Libraries, HSE, Age Friendly, Laois Partnership, Adult Literacy for Life, and the Irish Heart Foundation, along with crime prevention advice from Sergeant Graham Kavanagh.
Pictured: Portlaoise library
"This event is about bringing healthcare experts into the community to answer facilitated questions in areas that are causing the main difficulties for people," a representative told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.
"The event aims to build confidence and empower people to ask if they do not understand, and to reduce stigma and embarrassment in health-related situations. We have had an overwhelmingly positive response and look forward to the day," they explained.
Organisers say that the reason this event was organised was following a study on the public that revealed that many struggle to ask health related questions.
"In Ireland, 28% of people or close to 1,000,000, would have limited health literacy. Over 17% would understand little information received from their GP, nurse or pharmacist, and 38% of people would have taken the wrong dose of medication at least once. 42% of people listed embarrassment for not asking for an explanation," organisers said.
The event is facilitated by Orlaith O'Reilly, Health Literacy Educator with the Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB).
The panel will see a wide range of experts providing advice, including Pearse Murphy, Principal Social Worker in Primary Care; Paula Murphy, Senior Pharmacist, Frailty Team; Shauna Williams, Social Prescribing, Laois Partnership Company; Sharon Butler, Irish Heart Foundation; Talent Nyamakope, Health Literacy Lead, Adult Literacy for Life; Domhnall McGlacken Byrne, Registrar of Public Health; and Orlaith O’Reilly, Health Literacy Educator, LOETB.
Join Laois locals at the Ask the Experts in Portlaoise Library from 2pm to 4pm on Monday, November 10.
Registration is required. Those interested can register through Laois Library Service, or phone 057 862 2333.