When it comes to preventative health care, blood screening tests provide physicians with a plethora of health information.

Now in its 34th year, the Altoona AMBUCS and UPMC Altoona have partnered to offer a low-cost option for lab tests aiding in early disease detection. The blood screening program is designed to include tests that assist in the early detection of the leading health risks in our region, including coronary heart disease, glucose intolerance and diabetes, kidney and liver disease, and anemia.

The program uses a voucher system to operate this program.

This year, vouchers will be sold at the Blair County Convention Center main level lobby from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 11, and Saturday, April 25.

Vouchers will also be sold at the Blair Wellness and Senior Expo from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 18, at the Altoona Station Medical Center.

Vouchers may also be purchased by sending a check payable to Altoona AMBUCS along with a self-addressed return envelope to Edward Farabaugh, 2102 17th Ave., Altoona, PA 16601.

The blood analysis program includes a required purchase of a 36 health screen panel test at a cost of $70 and optional tests for Hemoglobin A1C (diabetes), Vitamin D, Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), and C-Reactive Protein (heart) for $20 each. Vouchers must be used between May 1-31. No prior registration is needed but purchased vouchers must be presented to the lab at the time of blood collection. A 12-hour fast is required. Vouchers can be used at:

— UPMC Altoona Station Medical Center (daily 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)

— UPMC Blair Medical at Station Medical Center (by appointment only – 814-946-1655)

— UPMC Outpatient Center in Hollidaysburg (Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

— UPMC Outpatient Center Ebensburg (Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

All tests results will be reviewed by a hospital physician and then forwarded to you. You are encouraged to take a copy of the results with you to your next doctor’s appointment and review the results with your physician.

Funds raised from this service project are used to accomplish the AMBUC mission statement of “inspiring mobility and independence for those with disabilities” by providing adaptive therapeutic tricycles, awarding scholarships to therapy students, and more.