YMCA partners with Carolinas HealthCare System
Carolinas HealthCare System (CHS) is the official health education and prevention partner of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte. This strategic alliance allows branches to fully integrate and expand their health and wellness programs for all people.
A registered nurse from CHS works with branch wellness staff to provide preventative health services as well as guidance for individuals desiring to lead a healthier, more active lifestyle. Physicians affiliated with CHS serve as Medical Directors for each branch’s CMC Health Center.
Some of the programs and services the partnership offers:
(free of charge unless otherwise noted)
New Member Health Review
Upon request, the CHS nurse conducts a general health assessment of each new YMCA member. The nurse contacts and advises high-risk individuals in order to help them develop personal health programs in coordination with the YMCA wellness staff. Nurse Consults
The registered nurse serves as a resource to YMCA members with health concerns and provides them with recommendations for participation in specific YMCA programs. Health Education and Screenings
The CHS nurse and the YMCA’s wellness staff hold health education programs and screenings for members and others in the community. Nutrition Education
The registered nurse and the YMCA’s wellness staff offer basic nutrition education to YMCA members and the branch’s surrounding community. Individuals needing specialized nutrition counseling are referred to a registered dietitian. Blood Pressure Monitoring
The YMCA’s wellness staff and the CHS nurse provide blood pressure monitoring services. The nurse consults with individuals who are seeking advice on abnormal readings. This service is available to YMCA members and the community. Lab Services
The CHS nurse offers monthly cholesterol screenings, lipid profiles, allergy shots and other lab services for members and the community. Flu Shots
Flu shots are made available to YMCA members and the communities served by the branch at the beginning of the flu season. Cost: $25 Freedom From Smoking® Our nurse has been specially trained by the American Lung Association to administer this proven effective program. Freedom From Smoking® provides a supportive and structural approach to quitting smoking in a small group setting helping individuals overcome their addiction and enjoy the benefits of better health including lower healthcare costs. Cost: $FREE -- Classes forming now!
For more information contact:
Phyllis Heald, RN
Wellness Nurse
(704) 716-6611
phyllis.heald@ymcacharlotte.org
Meet Our Nurse
Phyllis began her nursing career over 20 years ago. She was a RN specializing in Cardiovascular Nursing working in an ICU/CCU step down unit. Over six years ago Phyllis came to the Simmons YMCA in collaboration with Carolinas Healthcare System. Phyllis uses her years of experience to work with members for their various health and wellness needs including blood pressure checks, flu shots and cholesterol screenings.