GOUVERNEUR, N.Y. — Kinney Drugs later this month plans to hold free diabetes clinics at all of its stores in Vermont.

Dubbed "Diabetes Alert Day," the round of testing and education clinics will be held 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 23, at 16 Kinney stores.

Those attending the clinics, which are being held in conjunction with six Vermont hospitals, will be able to test their blood glucose level by finger stick and take the American Diabetes Association’s risk test, according to Kinney.

Attendees also can learn more about diabetes risks and treatment, whether they’re diagnosed or undiagnosed with the disease. A "How to Live Well with Diabetes" booklet from the Vermont Health Department will be available to participants as well.

The chain, which has about 90 stores in upstate New York and Vermont, noted that its pharmacists also will be readily available to answer questions about diabetes.

And in another initiative, Kinney has partnered with St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center in Syracuse, N.Y., to offer patients free health screenings and education.

To be held throughout March, the "Wellness Wednesday" events with a registered nurse or health care professional from the hospital’s wellness program will take place at Kinney’s Gifford Street store in Syracuse. Screenings and education topics include blood pressure and heart health, women’s health, diabetes awareness and seasonal wellness.