HCF Nowra encourages locals to put their health first with free heart health checks

Nowra, 22 March, 2017 –  HCF, leading not-for-profit health fund, has once again partnered with The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to offer free heart health checks for members with extras at HCF Nowra. The partnership between HCF and Victor Chang, now in its fifth year, has seen almost 35,000 members tested across Australia for risk factors that could affect their heart.

The Victor Chang Health Check Booth will be operating from 3 April to 5 April and includes three quick health tests — blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose - to help members understand and track these factors that can impact their heart health.

HCF’s 2016 Nowra program highlighted a need for local members to put their health first, with over one third (38%) of tested members presenting with high cholesterol, and 70% not knowing their cholesterol levels. Just over one third (35%) of tested members were recommended to visit a GP for further assessment and health management.

HCF Nowra Branch Manager, Julie Brammer, says last year’s results highlight that locals should remain diligent in assessing their heart health.

“The Heart Health Checks are one way HCF empowers members to make healthy lifestyle choices, particularly to prevent cardiovascular disease. Looking at the results from last year, it's clear there is room for improvement. We’re proud to offer the community a range of services that will help members get their health back on track,” Julie said.

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.

Nowra residents can also make use of the many digital tools and free online resources from HCF to help them reach their health and fitness goals. HCF’s suite of healthy apps includes a Get Fitter app, offering advice and tailored exercise plans, a Be Happier app, including tools to improve mental and emotional wellbeing, and a Quit Smoking app to help smokers stay focused on their smoke-free goals.

Tips for a healthy heart
According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, there are some simple ways that Nowra 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:

Media inquiries to:

About HCF

HCF, leading not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers over 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 health care 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 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 and HCF Eyecare 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