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Calhoun County, MI - The Calhoun County Public Health Department (CCPHD) is excited to offer a sensory-friendly room option for clients to receive immunizations. The sensory room offers a friendly space inside the health department with a variety of tactile and sensory items including a bubble light, activity panel, and more. The CCPHD staff are well versed in distraction techniques and can make accommodations for individuals who struggle with the vaccine process. Any Calhoun County resident who prefers a sensory-friendly setting is welcome to come into the Albion or Battle Creek clinic to receive services. The sensory-friendly room was made possible by funding from the Children’s Special Health Care Services Vaccine Initiative.
The sensory-friendly room is available at the Toeller building located at 190 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek and Albion Health Department at 115 Market Place, Albion. For more information about CCPHD's immunization hours and the sensory room, please call us at 269-969-6363 (Battle Creek) or 517-629-9434 (Albion) or visit our website. Childhood immunizations, flu, and COVID-19 vaccinations are all available to receive in the sensory room.
What will make these clinics sensory-friendly?
- Lower lighting levels.
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Picture communication materials, also known as Social Stories for explaining the vaccination process, will be available on our website.
- Fidget items will be on hand for distraction, comfort, or stimming if desired.
- Patients are encouraged to make any sounds that they would like during the vaccination process!
- Staff trained on sensory and disability accommodations and best practices.
Local health departments have a responsibility to work to address health inequities across the entire population that they serve. One group which faces diverse and significant health inequities are persons with disabilities. Some individuals with disabilities require accommodations in order to be appropriately served by the local public health system. Receiving a vaccine can be scary for some children or adults, but those with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities face unique challenges in finding and receiving the necessary vaccinations. The sensory room will bridge the gap and provide an inclusive, supportive experience and ensure a low stress experience for both clients and the people who care for them.
Individuals with disabilities of any kind are always welcome at any of CCPHD’s sensory rooms.
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