Wednesday, June 27, 2001

Health Dept. eyes fee hike

The Fayette County Health Department announces that as of July 1, some service fees will increase.

The Health Dept. has been able to avoid raising the fees that it charges its customers for services for the past four years. Although the costs to provide these services have increased each year, the department managed to hold fees in check without compromising its commitment to providing affordable quality care.

Affordable quality care is still the department's primary goal. To that end, although it was necessary to increase some fees: the department, in conjunction with the Board of Health, has been able to keep fees well below those of the private sector.

Because of the wide array of services provided by the health department, it would be difficult to list all services and fees. Listed below are some of the most noteworthy changes.

Immunization Services

Administration fees for all immunizations: $15 per shot.

Pneumonia vaccine for adults: $25.

Flu vaccine: $15.

School Readiness

Hearing/Vision/Dental screening: $16. (hearing = $8, vision = $8)

Family Planning

Birth control pills: $10 per pack.

Annual and initial visit fees: dependent upon income eligibility.

As the next school year approaches, updated information will be supplied to school personnel. Please keep in mind that the fee changes take effect July 1.

Contact the Fayette County Health Dept. at 770-461-1178, ext. 5243 for further information.