BROADWAY, 29 November 2017 – HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, has partnered with The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to offer free heart health checks for members with extras. Now in its fifth year, the partnership between HCF and Victor Chang tests members for risk factors that could affect their heart. To date, Victor Chang has tested 55,000 Australians through its Health Check Booths across the country.

As part of HCF’s commitment to providing community care, and off the back of its recent Sydney city expansion, the Victor Chang Health Check Booth will be operating at HCF Broadway for the first time from 29 November – 1 December 2017. The checks include three quick health tests — blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose – to help members understand and track these factors that can impact their heart health.

Data from HCF George Street’s 2016 program highlighted a need for Sydney’s local members to put their health first, with over a third (35%) of tested members presenting with high cholesterol, over two-thirds (77%) not knowing their cholesterol levels and over half (60%) not knowing their blood pressure. Over a third (35%) of tested members were also recommended to visit a GP for further assessment and health management.

Broadway Branch Manager, Dirga Adnan, is encouraging locals to take advantage of the free health checks.

“The team at HCF Broadway is excited to offer the Victor Chang heart health checks for the first time, as it’s a fantastic, convenient way for members to stay on top of their heart health. The quick and easy checks asses three key indicators of cardiovascular health, and provide members with an instant update as to how their heart health is tracking. Members are also provided with lifestyle tips and tricks to improve their heart health.”

The heart health checks are free for members with extras cover thanks to HCF’s ongoing partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, a not-for-profit charity dedicated to fighting cardiovascular disease through research.

Tips for a healthy heart

According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, there are some simple ways that Sydney residents can maintain a healthy heart:

• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and choose lean meats and poultry.
• Cut down on salt.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.
• Curb your alcohol intake. No more than one or two standard alcoholic drinks per day is recommended.
• Quit smoking.
• Know your risk factors for heart disease.
  

-ENDS-

Issued on behalf of HCF by WE Buchan. Media enquiries to:

• Natalie Hasapaki
  Ph: (02) 9237 2802
  Mob: 0438 001 253 
  nhasapaki@buchanwe.com.au
  
• Sophia Brockman
  Ph:(02) 9237 2815
  Mob: 0416 558 002
  sbrockman@buchanwe.com.au
   

About HCF

HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting people since 1932, covers around 1.5 million members with health and life insurance, community care, travel and pet insurance. On average over the last five years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. With over 35,000 specialists participating in its Medical Gap Cover Scheme and approximately 10,000 providers participating in its 100% back More for You programs, HCF gives members access to quality healthcare with no gaps or minimal costs compared to non-participating providers. To empower members to put their health first, HCF also offers a range of health and lifestyle services including its My Health Guardian health management program, mobile Victor Chang Heart Health Checks and My Global Specialist second opinion service. HCF’s national network of retail outlets and Australian-based call centres have earned multi-award winning status. HCF members also have access to low cost, high quality services at HCF Dental Centres. Having contributed $50 million to support the health services research funded by the HCF Research Foundation, HCF is devoted to investing in the future of Australia’s health.  To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us