Kadena's Health and Wellness Center shuts down

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Omari Bernard
  • Kadena Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  The Kadena Health and Wellness Center has closed its doors recently, as part of an Air Force-wide closure to cut costs and reorganize the way Airmen stay healthy.

"HAWCs began closing Air Force-wide starting in October 2014, eliminating the one-stop-shop area along with the Exercise Physiologist positions and fitness classes," explained Kara Nesle, 18th Aerospace Medical Squadron health technician.

Although some services once provided by the HAWC are being taken over by other units, others will no longer be required by Air Force Instructions.

For example, Air Force form 422 for an exercise waiver will no longer be mandated for Airmen with a medical profile. Airmen who need assistance with a medical exemption should contact their unit fitness program manager for details, and make an appointment to see their primary care manager.

Programs such as tobacco cessation and nutrition education, previously provided by the HAWC, have been continued by the 18th Medical Group Health Promotions section. Health Promotions also offers diabetes, hypertension, healthy heart classes and a five week weight-loss program called Better Body, Better Life.

The Health Promotions section is available to all status of armed forces personnel and their dependents ages 18 and up.

"The plan is to have this information-healthy culture embedded into the base environment," Nesle said. "Health promotions will be working with different base agencies to make the healthier choice the easier choice on base."

The Health Promotions section has relocated to Bldg. 754, the Aerospace and Operational Physiology Training Flight building, on Fisher Avenue between the Aero Club and Fire Station 1. To get there from Gate 1, follow Douglas Boulevard, pass Schreiber Avenue, and take the next left onto Fisher Avenue; Bldg. 754 is the first large building on the right.

For those wanting more information on meal planning, weight management, and recipe modification, visit www.USAFLivingFit.com. Dietary supplement, fitness, and nutrition information can be found on HPRC-online.org, which is a co-sponsored Department of Defense Website. The Fitness Improvement Program On-line, formerly known as BE WELL, is available on the Advanced Distributed Learning Service for members who receive an unsatisfactory score on their fitness test.

For any questions or to sign up for classes, call Health Promotions at 634-3332.