Free blood work will be offered to students and staff at Summit Township Elementary School this week.
As the police investigation into the district’s response to high lead levels in the well water at Summit continues, the Butler Area School District has contracted with Butler Health System to provide blood testing at no cost.
While the human body does require different minerals to function properly, it requires them in trace amounts. Hence, the term “trace minerals”. Yet, there are certain minerals like lead, mercury, arsenic etc that are simply incompatible with human anatomy, and their buildup over time in our bodies can lead to health complications. Which is why it is important that everyone at the school be tested to avoid any health complications in the future.
The testing can be done at any Butler Health System facility. Medical professionals will also be at Summit Elementary on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to do testing there. Students must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to get their blood tested.
School district officials say they have also contracted with the Butler Health System to perform copper level testing. The copper level testing will follow the same procedures as the lead level testing.
Testing for minerals (trace or otherwise) in water can be done using simple lab equipment in a school or college setting. However, testing a water source or doing a blood work requires a more concentrated approach. Not to mention the sophisticated apparatus – those interested can consider looking at SciQuip’s range of equipment – and trained personnel to operate them, monitor, and provide results in quick time. Ensuring that the testing is done under suitable conditions and that the equipment used is high-quality medical grade becomes important if precise results must be determined.
The district is providing continuous updates regarding the water situation on its Summit Township Elementary School website. A blood test reimbursement form is available on that site.
Written By: Kayla Molczan for the Butler Radio Network
Photo Credit: Butler Area School District
