Wellness Blog & Clinic News

Preventative Health Screenings Naknek: Staying Ahead of Your Health

In the heart of Bristol Bay, where tight-knit communities, resilient traditions, and rugged landscapes shape daily life, taking charge of your health isn’t always easy, but it is essential. These rugged landscapes and the remote nature of rural Alaska present challenges for healthcare access, yet they also contribute to a unique and vibrant lifestyle. Despite these present challenges, residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle that is deeply connected to the land and community.

At Cama’i Community Health Center, we believe in empowering our neighbors to lead healthier lives by staying ahead of potential health issues with preventative screenings. Early detection truly can be lifesaving — and it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our community.

Take charge of your health today—schedule a preventative screening with Cama’i today.

Why Preventative Health Screenings Matter

Whether it’s high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, many serious health conditions begin quietly, without symptoms. Regular preventative screenings allow providers to catch these issues early, when they’re most treatable. For communities like Naknek, South Naknek, and King Salmon, where distance from care is a real challenge, early detection isn’t just important — it’s life-changing. These services ensure early detection and comprehensive care, which are essential for the community’s health and resilience.

Preventive care and proactive care are key approaches that help lower long-term healthcare costs, improve quality of life, and reduce the stress that comes from dealing with late-stage health issues. It’s a proactive approach that gives you control over your health and peace of mind for the future, helping to promote and support lifelong well-being for all residents.

Screenings Offered at Camai Community Health Center

At Cama’i, we are proud to offer a full range of primary care services, not just urgent care, with a strong focus on preventative health, top-quality healthcare, and exceptional healthcare services.

We are dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services and ensuring comprehensive healthcare for our community.

Below are some of the vital screenings we provide as part of our comprehensive healthcare approach, offering a variety of treatment options for our patients:

1. Cancer Screenings

  • Breast Cancer: Comprehensive exams, mammogram referrals, and clinical breast exams.
  • Cervical Cancer: Comprehensive exams and routine Pap smears for women starting at age 21.
  • Colorectal Cancer: Comprehensive exams, colonoscopy referrals, and at-home stool tests for those over 45 or with a family history.

2. Cardiovascular Screenings

  • Blood Pressure Checks: High blood pressure often shows no symptoms but can lead to heart attacks or strokes.
  • Cholesterol Testing: Understanding your cholesterol levels can help you prevent heart disease before it starts.

3. Diabetes Screenings

  • Regular A1C tests for patients with risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure, or family history of diabetes.

4. Behavioral Health Screenings

  • Screenings for depression, anxiety, substance use, and mental health — all handled with compassion and cultural sensitivity by our behavioral health team.
  • Mental wellness is just as important as physical health, and our team is here to support you with comprehensive mental health support and services.

5. Nutritional Counseling and Wellness

  • Obesity-related screenings, dietary consultations, and personalized health planning with our in-house dietitian to help you meet your health goals. Cama’i offers personalized nutrition and weight loss support services to help patients achieve their wellness goals. Our team works with you to develop plans for a healthier lifestyle.

6. Pediatric & Adolescent Screenings

  • Well child visits, vision and hearing tests, developmental assessments, and immunizations (especially those featured on the Cleveland Clinic’s Childhood Immunization Schedule) are essential for early detection and ongoing health.

Children require specialized care, especially in emergency situations. Cama’i provides emergency pediatric treatment and is equipped to handle pediatric emergencies for the youngest members of the community. Our specialized care ensures that pediatric emergencies are managed promptly and effectively.

7. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing

  • Confidential and respectful screenings to help you take control of your sexual health.

A Facility That Meets You Where You Are

Cama’i Community Health Center isn’t just another clinic — it’s a federally qualified health center (FQHC) designed to meet the unique needs of rural Alaskans. Cama’i’s facility is a state-of-the-art center in Naknek, equipped to handle pediatric emergencies and provide specialized healthcare services, ensuring the community receives essential health resources despite geographical challenges.

At Cama’i CHC, our team works collaboratively to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care, addressing community needs through tailored services and programs. As a trusted partner in health, Cama’i Health Center is committed to addressing community health needs by offering a wide range of health resources, including other health resources beyond basic care. Cama’i’s health resources are vital for the well-being of our rural community, and Cama’i Community Health Center strives to ensure all community members receive the care they need.

We understand that many in our community may associate Cama’i primarily with emergency services, and we’re proud to provide 24/7 urgent care, but we also want to encourage everyone to come in for routine checkups, screenings, and preventative care. Our compassionate providers are here to build long-term relationships with you and your family.

A Word for the Working Hands of Bristol Bay

If you’re spending your days hauling nets, gutting salmon, or preparing gear for the next big catch in the Bristol Bay region, we see you. Fishing is the lifeblood of the Bristol Bay community, especially here in Naknek, AK, United States, and Cama’i is here to support the hardworking men and women who keep our traditions alive. We are dedicated to serving rural Alaska residents who rely on these waters. If you come in for a fishhook injury or work-related accident, consider also scheduling a quick health screening while you’re here. Your well-being matters — on and off the water.

Community-Centered, Culturally Rooted

Our approach to care is inclusive, compassionate, and practical. We honor the diverse cultures that call Bristol Bay home and work hard to create a welcoming space for all. Whether you’re Alaska Native, a long-time resident, or new to the region, your health matters at Cama’i.

Cama’i strives to meet the needs of our community by overcoming the vast distances that separate villages and limit access to essential healthcare in remote Alaska. Our dedicated team includes community health aides, who are trained to provide culturally safe and accessible care directly within the community. Comprehensive services, such as prenatal care, are available to support women and families throughout pregnancy. We are committed to building a healthy rural community by ensuring everyone in remote Alaska has access to the resources and support they need.

We also understand the deep connection many people here have to the land, the water, and each other. That’s why our healthcare model is community-first. We aren’t just a clinic — we’re your neighbors, your support system, and your partner in wellness.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Future

Preventive screenings save lives. Preventive and proactive care is key to achieving optimal health. If you haven’t had a health check in a while, or if you’re unsure which screenings you need, let’s talk. Our team is here to walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you stay ahead of your health, without judgment, and with care. Schedule an appointment today to take the next step toward lifelong wellness.

Cama’i Community Health Center is proud to serve you, not just when you’re hurt, but every day you want to feel better, live healthier, and take control of your future.

Ready to schedule? Contact us to learn more or book an appointment.