This week Lieutenant Commander John Naegeli, a Pharmacist at the Cass Lake Indian Health Services discusses the Walking Shield program. The program brings army doctors, dentists, and other soldiers to offer medical, psychological, and dental services to the Cass Lake community.
The Walking Shield mission began in Cass Lake on July 18 and goes to July 26, with appointments available on weekends as well. They set up a large tent on the grounds of the Cass Lake Middle School and High School for medical services.
The program addresses the demand for healthcare services, especially due to the impact of COVID-19. It offers mental health counseling, general and sports physicals, and dental treatments like cleanings, fillings, and extractions—all at no cost to the Cass Lake community.
This year, they introduced an online access spot for appointment requests through their Facebook page or email address (casslakeirt2023@gmail.com).
Marie Rock reporting for Minnesota Native News
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