TOWNSEND -- Physical therapy services offered at the Broadwater Health Center here seem a well-kept secret to some community members.

But this Saturday's Community Health Fair organizers hope to change that.

The free health fair runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Cecelia Hazelton Elementary School multipurpose room.

Now in its second year, the health fair raises community awareness of health services available here and in Helena.

"I want them to come meet me," said physical therapist Kris Darrah, who started working at the health center three months ago.

"We pretty much cover most areas of therapy," she said.

The health center has been remodeling the department and investing in new equipment, such as the "total gym."

This equipment allows patients to work "all areas of their bodies, from shoulders, back, hips, to knees and anything in between," she said.

"When people who are active and get injured," she said, "we can help them get back to their prior level." Common problems she's seeing are lower back and rotator cuff injuries.

The department provides both inpatient and outpatient services for ages ranging from children to geriatric.

Approximately 25 vendors are expected, including Spectrum Medical, which provides wheelchairs and power scooters.

"All the Medicare guidelines for power mobility changed April 1," said Darrah. And a number of Townsend residents could be impacted by these changes. The vendor representative will be up to date on the new criteria that qualify people for power mobility.

"The thing people really liked last year and can take advantage of this year ... is they got a lot of one-on-one time with people (vendors)," said Jane Muller, who helped organize the fair.

Fair attendees can pick up vouchers to receive reduced-cost lab work at BHC.

Information will be available about screening for diabetes, breast and cervical cancer and prostate cancer as well.

There are free or low-cost mammograms for those in need, said Muller. She urges residents to attend to learn more about these services.

Organizers are also offering door prizes, including a $100 cash prize in honor of the Cancer Treatment Center at St. Peter's Hospital.

Fair attendees can receive free "green" shopping bags, while supplies last.

The fair is sponsored by Soroptimist International of Crimson Bluffs.

Reporter Marga Lincoln: 447-4074 or marga.lincoln@helenair.com